SOFT SKILLS IN HIGHER EDUCATION: DEVELOPING STUDENTS’ INTERPERSONAL AND COGNITIVE COMPETENCIES WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE EDUCATION
Keywords:
English language teaching (ELT), soft skills, communication skills, critical thinking, project-based learning, interpersonal skills, cognitive skills, educational developmentAbstract
In an increasingly interconnected and dynamic world, soft skills such as communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence are essential for success in both academic and professional environments. While English language teaching (ELT) has traditionally focused on linguistic competence, contemporary pedagogical approaches are recognizing the significant role that ELT can play in developing these vital soft skills. This article explores how English language instruction can be utilized to enhance students’ interpersonal and cognitive soft skills, providing a comprehensive overview of relevant teaching strategies and practices. Through a review of relevant literature and empirical evidence, the article highlights how ELT methods such as task-based learning, communicative language teaching, and project-based learning can be effectively used to foster soft skills development. The article concludes by offering recommendations for educators to integrate soft skills into their language teaching practices.
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