Proposed Framework for Developing Soft Skills Among Saudi University Students: A Prospective Study

Abstract

     The objective of the current study is to propose a framework for developing soft skills among Saudi university students. To achieve this goal, a descriptive approach was used, Delphi method was used to collect data from (37) experts from universities and research centers.

     The study's findings revealed agreement on a set of personal, cognitive, and social skills essential for the development soft skills among the students. The most prominent of which were autonomy and self-reliance, positive handling of challenges and changes, balancing academic and personal life, self-leadership, negotiation, independent learning, effective listening, and collaboration. The results emphasized that these skills enable university students to succeed in their academic and professional lives, adapt to contemporary changes, and meet labor market demands related to human capital. Based on these results, the study presented a proposed framework for developing soft skills among Saudi university students.

Keywords: Soft skills, Personal skills, Cognitive skills, Social skills.