As part of the Vietnamese Society and Culture course, international students participating in a one-semester exchange program at the Vietnam–UK Institute for Research and Executive Education (VNUK), The University of Danang, recently took part in a field trip to the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Learning Through Cultural Heritage

The visit offered students a valuable opportunity to directly engage with the historical, artistic, and cultural legacy of the Champa Kingdom—an ancient civilization that once had a profound influence on Central Vietnam. Through an extensive collection of artifacts, sculptures, and curated exhibition spaces, students gained deeper insights into Cham spiritual life, beliefs, and artistic expression within the broader historical narrative of Vietnam.

Learning History Through Artifacts and Real-Life Experience

Rather than learning solely from textbooks and classroom lectures, students were able to observe artifacts firsthand, listen to the historical stories behind each sculpture, and ask questions about cultural exchange and interaction throughout Vietnamese history. This experiential approach helped students connect theory with practice, fostering a more nuanced and multidimensional understanding of Vietnamese society and culture.

Enhancing Academic Experience and Cultural Connection

This out-of-class learning activity not only enriched the academic experience of international students but also helped them better understand the historical and cultural context of the country in which they are studying. The activity reflects VNUK’s ongoing efforts to build an international learning environment that effectively integrates classroom instruction with hands-on, real-world experiences.

The visit left many lasting impressions and memorable moments for international students during their time at VNUK. Let’s take a look back at some highlights from the field trip to the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture.