Many Vietnamese international students are surprised to discover that one of the biggest challenges of studying in Australia is not necessarily difficult exams or a heavy workload—it is the frequent requirement to participate in group study and group assignments.
Even students with strong academic records and good English proficiency can feel pressured when they are expected to discuss ideas, debate viewpoints, and collaborate closely with other group members. This is also one of the most significant differences between studying in Vietnam and studying in Australia.
So why do many Vietnamese international students feel hesitant about group work, and how can they adapt more effectively to this learning environment?
1. The Role of Group Work in the Australian Education System
Unlike the traditional learning environment in Vietnam, where academic performance is often assessed mainly through exams and individual assignments, Australian universities place strong emphasis on teamwork, communication skills, and critical thinking.
In many subjects, group assignments can account for between 20% and 50% of the final grade. However, lecturers are not only assessing the final outcome—they also evaluate how effectively group members collaborate throughout the process.
The reason is simple: group work is designed to mirror real-world workplaces. After graduation, most students will work in multicultural teams where they need to communicate, solve problems, and achieve shared goals together. Universities therefore want students to develop these skills while they are still studying.
In other words, group work is not just about completing a subject—it is also an opportunity to build valuable professional skills for the future.
2. Why Do Many Vietnamese International Students Feel Hesitant About Group Work?
2.1. Language Barriers and Fear of Making Mistakes
English is often the first challenge international students encounter. However, it is not only students with weaker English skills who feel pressured.
Many students with IELTS scores of 6.5 or 7.0 still feel reluctant to participate actively in discussions. The issue is often not understanding the content but worrying that their ideas may not be expressed clearly enough or that their contributions may not be valuable.
For example, you may have prepared thoroughly and already have ideas to contribute. Yet when other group members are discussing rapidly in English, you hesitate to speak up. By the time you feel confident enough to join the conversation, the discussion has already moved on to another topic.
As a result, many students feel left behind even though they are fully capable of contributing to the group.
2.2. Fear of Becoming a Burden to the Group
This is a common but often overlooked concern.
Many Vietnamese students have a strong sense of responsibility. When they feel their communication or teamwork skills are not yet strong enough, they often worry about slowing down the group’s progress.
Instead of asking questions to gain clarity, some students choose to remain silent because they do not want to inconvenience others. Others hesitate to share their opinions because they assume international classmates are more experienced or knowledgeable.
Unfortunately, this mindset can create distance between students and the rest of the team. The less they participate, the more difficult it becomes to feel included in future group projects.
2.3. The Difference Between Studying for Exams and Learning Through Discussion
One of the biggest academic adjustments for Vietnamese international students is the difference in teaching approaches.
In Vietnam, many students are accustomed to focusing on achieving good results in tests and examinations. Understanding the content and providing correct answers are often enough to perform well.
In Australia, however, students are encouraged to present their own opinions, analyse issues from different perspectives, and defend their arguments. As a result, many students find themselves in a familiar situation: they understand the material but are unsure what to contribute during discussions.
This can lead to a lack of confidence even when their academic ability is just as strong as their peers’.
2.4. Differences in Communication Culture
Many Asian cultures place a strong emphasis on humility and avoiding direct confrontation. Australian academic culture, by contrast, encourages students to ask questions, challenge ideas, and express personal opinions.
When participating in group discussions for the first time, many Vietnamese students are surprised by how direct international classmates can be. Lively debates may sometimes be mistaken for conflict or tension.
In reality, academic debate is not about winning or losing—it is about finding better solutions and deeper understanding. Once students recognise this, many become more comfortable sharing their own perspectives.
2.5. Balancing Study and Part-Time Work
Beyond language and confidence issues, financial pressures can also affect the group work experience.
Many international students need to balance their studies with part-time employment. While other group members may schedule meetings during evenings or weekends, many Vietnamese students are often working at those times.
Missing meetings regularly or responding slowly to messages can make students feel that they are not contributing enough. Over time, this can lead to feelings of guilt and reluctance to engage further with the group.
3. How Can International Students Participate More Effectively in Group Work?
3.1. Don’t Wait Until Your English Is Perfect
Many students believe they need to speak fluent English before they can contribute effectively to group work.
In reality, group members often value initiative and cooperation more than perfect language skills. You do not need to deliver long speeches or use highly academic vocabulary. Asking a question, sharing an idea, or confirming your responsibilities is already a meaningful contribution.
3.2. Start With Small Actions
If you do not feel confident speaking during discussions, begin with simple actions such as replying to messages promptly, attending meetings consistently, and keeping the team updated on your progress.
In many situations, a reliable and responsible team member is valued more highly than someone who talks a lot but fails to complete tasks on time.
3.3. Use Technology to Support Communication
Platforms such as Google Docs, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom are widely used in Australian universities. If verbal communication feels challenging, you can still contribute through comments, written discussions, and collaborative documents.
Many international students use these tools to participate more confidently and effectively in group projects.
4. Group Work Is Part of the Adaptation Journey
For many Vietnamese international students, group work can be one of the first major challenges they face while studying in Australia. However, feeling shy or lacking confidence at the beginning is completely normal.
No one becomes confident after just a few discussions. Yet every time you speak up, contribute an idea, or participate in a shared task, you take another step towards adapting to your new environment.
While group work may initially feel like just another academic requirement, over time it becomes an opportunity to develop communication skills, learn teamwork, and build meaningful relationships throughout your study abroad journey.
Preparing for Study Abroad Is More Than Preparing Your Application
Choosing the right course and institution is important, but understanding the Australian learning environment before you arrive can make your transition much smoother during the first few months.
>> Contact Next Gem today for personalised advice on study pathways and practical insights to help you feel more confident as you begin your study abroad journey in Australia.
