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

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.