Awareness, implementation, and participation in extracurricular educational activities at University: A cross-sectional study

This study investigates the awareness, implementation, and participation levels of extracurricular educational activities among students, managers, and union officers at Hong Duc University. Extracurricular activities are recognized as essential components of higher education, contributing significantly to students' academic performance, skill development, emotional well-being, and employability. The study surveyed 415 participants, including 50 managers, 35 union officers, and 330 students from various faculties. Data was collected through tailored questionnaires and interviews, with statistical analysis conducted using SPSS to evaluate perceptions and engagement levels. The questionnaires included a four-point Likert scale assessing three dimensions: awareness (7 items), implementation (4 items), and participation (9 items) in extracurricular activities, with mean scores categorized into four levels ranging from low to high engagement. The findings reveal a moderate level of awareness of the importance of extracurricular activities, with experiential learning and vocational training receiving the highest valuation due to their alignment with professional and practical skills development. Cultural, artistic, and sports activities were highly rated in terms of implementation and participation, highlighting their universal appeal and potential for fostering social integration and personal growth. Conversely, activities related to political and ideological education, academic research, and innovative entrepreneurship exhibited lower levels of implementation and engagement, suggesting challenges such as insufficient institutional support and student interest. The study underscores the importance of strategically designed extracurricular programs to enhance students' holistic development. Recommendations include increasing institutional investment, promoting interdisciplinary approaches, and employing engaging delivery methods to address participation gaps in underrepresented areas. Additionally, activities such as public service, volunteerism, and humanitarian initiatives require enhanced coordination and logistical support to foster community involvement and social responsibility among students. Future studies should adopt longitudinal and multi-institutional designs to generalize findings and further explore the evolving role of extracurricular activities in diverse educational contexts.