| Abstract: |
The primary objective of this study is to develop a comprehensive theoretical framework for the action-oriented teaching perspective, grounded in the German approach, widely adopted in German-speaking countries. The article proposes a process that teachers can use to design and implement action-oriented teaching to enhance students' application of academic content in realistic professional situations and social contexts. This study follows a qualitative approach, employing systematic literature review, grounded theory, and thematic analysis methods. The findings reveal that action-oriented teaching has a strong psychological foundation. When analyzed in relation to cognitive and skills taxonomies, and empirical data from Germany and Vietnam, this concept demonstrates its capacity to foster learners' complex competencies--particularly their ability to apply theoretical knowledge in professional and social contexts. Action-oriented teaching can be implemented through various methods, such as project-based learning, experimentation, design tasks, fabrication tasks, debates, role-plays, and case studies. A key aspect of this concept is that learners actively engage in comprehensive actions to create material (tangible) or verbal learning products, which result from situation-oriented learning tasks. This framework helps address key educational challenges, including student engagement, competency development, and the integration of theory and practice. Its interdisciplinary and cross-cultural relevance makes it valuable for educators, policymakers, and researchers across vocational, general, and higher education contexts. |