The role of community service-learning on the development of technical students' essential soft skills: Case Study at Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Abstract
Soft skills are essential abilities that help individuals succeed in their careers and personal life. Technical students, in particular, must possess a variety of soft skills to be successful in their chosen fields. This study examines the role of community service-learning (CSL) in the development of essential soft skills among technical students of the Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City. The study employed a qualitative approach and involved interviews with faculty, staff, and students who have participated in CSL activities. A total of 150 respondents, which included 50 teachers and 100 technical students who had participated in a community service learning project, participated in the study. Results of the study showed that CSL had a positive effect on the development of essential soft skills among technical students. The participants perceived the CSL activities as a valuable source of learning, which enabled them to gain a better understanding of their subject and to develop important soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skill. The study also revealed that the CSL activities provided the students with an opportunity to develop their critical thinking skills, as well as to gain a better understanding of the community in which they were working. The analysis of the results also divulged the pedagogical potential of service-learning as an effective teaching tool. This is of particular importance to employers who are seeking more knowledgeable personnel in the job market. The study suggests that a more comprehensive approach to service-learning should be incorporated into educational programs in order to maximize student outcomes at higher education level.
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