Annette Sandoval

Emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills play a vital role in an instructor's effectiveness. Instructors with high EQ and well-developed interpersonal skills can create a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. This, in turn, fosters deeper student engagement, motivation, and academic success. Build trust and rapport with students, promoting open communication and a sense of safety. Empathize with students' challenges and concerns, providing tailored support and guidance. Manage classroom dynamics, conflicts, and emotions in a constructive manner. Adapt their teaching style to meet the diverse needs and learning preferences of their students. Provide constructive feedback that encourages growth, rather than criticism.

The 1997 Pennsylvania Soft Skills Study indeed highlighted the significance of effective work relationships and teamwork. Unfortunately, this crucial skill is often overlooked in educational settings.

Instructors may prioritize technical skills and academic achievement, inadvertently neglecting the development of essential soft skills like teamwork. This oversight can result in graduates entering the workforce without the necessary skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues, manage conflicts, and contribute to a positive team dynamic.

To address this gap, educators can incorporate teamwork-focused activities, projects, and assessments into their curricula. By doing so, instructors can help students develop the essential soft skills required to… >>>

As educators we can incorporate soft skills development into existing subjects and programs. Offer standalone courses, workshops, or programs focused on soft skills development. Encourage students to work on projects that require collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. Invite special speakers or guest from various industries to share their experiences and emphasize the importance of soft skills. Develop methods to assess and provide constructive feedback on students' soft skills development.