Enhancing Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes in Online Medical English Courses: The Impact of Microsoft Teams at University of Medicine and Pharmacy at HCMC

Abstract

The transition to online learning has emphasized the importance of digital platforms in enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes, particularly in specialized fields such as English for Medical Purposes (EMP). This study examines the impact of Microsoft Teams on student participation and academic performance in online medical English courses at University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City (UMP-HCMC). Using a mixed-methods approach, the research primarily employed multiple-choice question (MCQ) surveys to collect quantitative data from 120 students, equally divided between freshmen and second-year students, along with 10 English lecturers from the Department of Foreign Languages. The findings indicate that Microsoft Teams fosters interactive learning through features such as video conferencing, chat-based discussions, file sharing, and collaborative document editing, which enhance student engagement, motivation, and accessibility while supporting the development of essential medical English skills. However, challenges such as technical difficulties, internet connectivity issues, and varying levels of digital literacy among students and instructors highlight the need for continuous technical support and pedagogical training. Overall, the study highlights the effectiveness of Microsoft Teams in EMP instruction while emphasizing the necessity of ongoing improvements to maximize its benefits in an online learning environment.

Keywords: Microsoft Teams, online learning, English for Medical Purposes, student engagement, learning outcomes, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at HCMC

DOI: 10.7176/JLLL/105-01

Publication date: March 30^th 2025