TEACHING SOFT SKILLS TO ENGINEERING TEHCNOLOGY STUDENTS

Abstract

Research shows and accreditation boardsrequire that a successful engineering technology programincorporates the development of soft skills throughout itscurriculum. Although most engineering technology studentsrecognize the need to develop their technical proficiency,convincing these students to prioritize communication andmanagement skills can be challenging. An effectiveapproach that emphasizes the importance of soft skills is todesign core classes which include technical assignments thatstress responsible documentation of research, clear oral,graphical , and written communication, as well as thedevelopment of an accurate budget and schedule. Oftenoverlooked, but equally important in producing lifelonglearners and effective practitioners, is the collaboration ofhumanities and engineering   technology faculty in thecreation and evaluation of these assignments.Index Terms ⎯ Writing in the disciplines, multi-disciplinaryteaching, assessment, soft skills