Transversal Skills in the World of Work: Applied Linguistics’ Approach

Abstract

As a result of the ethno-cultural and economic contacts taking place between different countries, the 21st century has set new guidelines, known as transversal or soft skills, for employability worldwide. Communication between specialists representing different areas and occupations demands specific competences required by innovative employment systems. This, to a certain extent, has an impact on the world-wide use of English as an instrument for multinational communication. Thus, the present research, which is based on the results of the survey administered as part of the Erasmus+ Strategic partnership project Transversal Skills in Dentistry: Content and Language Integrated Approach, explored some of the key skills that are cross-disciplinary in nature and are required by the world of work. These skills tend to determine employability of tertiary level graduates with hands-off experience in dentistry. From the practical perspective, the study illustrates the key skills that are vital for increasing youth employability nowadays. The conclusions drawn support the presupposition that the 21st century’s employability is based on the manifestation of interdisciplinarity, application of novice content knowledge, and competent transition of academically acquired knowledge and skills into the world of work.