Research Engagement Among University EFL Lecturers in Vietnam: A Positioning Theory Perspective

Most Vietnamese university lecturers, especially those who teach English as a foreign language (EFL), have always considered research practice an unfamiliar area and seem disempowered from conducting research activities. Hence, this qualitative study investigates the research engagement of 21 Vietnamese EFL lecturers from a positioning theory perspective, as evidenced in semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed the participants’ insights into research when they play different roles: (a) lecturer, (b) action researcher, (c) EFL teacher, and (d) impossible-mission accomplisher. Regardless of the participants’ positions, their research engagement was low and depended on their perception of such roles. The study discusses implications for fostering academics’ research in higher education within and beyond Vietnam.