Associate Professor Quang Dai Tuyen Presents Research at the University of Chicago Alongside Scholars from Leading Universities Worldwide

Associate Professor Quang Dai Tuyen, Ph.D., Vice Dean of the Faculty of Tourism at Van Lang University, recently presented his research at the international conference “What Does It Mean to Do Public History in Asia?” hosted by the University of Chicago. The event brought together scholars, researchers, and speakers from prestigious universities around the world, creating an academic forum for discussions on public history, cultural heritage, and the role of communities in preserving and promoting local cultural values.

As part of the conference held at the University of Chicago (USA), Associate Professor Quang Dai Tuyen presented his research on heritage tourism as a form of everyday public history. The conference featured academics and experts from various renowned institutions, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue on culture, history, and community development.

The research examines how ethnic minority communities are gradually transforming cultural values embedded in everyday life into distinctive tourism products. From traditional rituals, handicrafts, and storytelling practices to daily community activities, local cultural elements are not only preserved but also brought to life through tourism experiences.

A key focus of the study is how ethnic minority communities are converting their living cultural heritage—including traditional ceremonies, craftsmanship, storytelling traditions, and communal practices—into authentic, experience-based tourism offerings. Rather than being confined to museums or formal cultural institutions, heritage is actively interpreted and shared by local residents themselves. As “living storytellers,” community members provide visitors with meaningful and immersive experiences that foster deeper cultural understanding.

The research highlights that tourism is not merely an economic activity; it also serves as a platform through which ethnic minority communities can reaffirm their cultural identities, transmit traditional knowledge, and actively participate in heritage preservation. In this way, cultural heritage is safeguarded and promoted in a sustainable manner while remaining closely connected to community life within its original cultural setting.

Associate Professor Quang Dai Tuyen’s presentation contributes fresh perspectives on heritage tourism and underscores the role of academic research in connecting cultural preservation, community development, and sustainable tourism in an increasingly globalized world.

His participation in this international conference further demonstrates the research capacity, global engagement, and scholarly contributions of the Faculty of Tourism at Van Lang University. Beyond sharing research findings on heritage tourism and Vietnamese culture with the international academic community, the event also helped showcase the unique cultural values of Vietnam’s ethnic minority communities to a global audience. Moreover, it opened new opportunities for research collaboration, academic exchange, and innovative approaches in the fields of sustainable tourism, heritage conservation, and community development.

News: Zoey
Photos: Associate Professor Quang Dai Tuyen