Factors influencing the development of soft skills in initial teacher training

Abstract

Soft skills are a construct that complements hard skills, and their development favors successful performance. This study aims to analyze the factors that influence the outcome of soft skills of teachers in initial training at a public university in southeastern Mexico. The research was developed from the qualitative paradigm, using the intrinsic type case study method. The data were analyzed using the content analysis technique, and two categories were established: internal and external factors that influence soft skills development. The results showed that the teachers referred among the internal elements to values, positive attitude, emotion management, and the use of positive language; and that the achievement of deep self-knowledge allows them to become aware of their potentialities, from which they manage to develop soft skills of assertive communication, problem-solving, among others. About external factors, they pointed out the influence of family and friends, as well as the importance of promoting a positive school climate and employing pertinent teaching and learning strategies in the training process for the achievement of skills. It is concluded that the factors identified support personal growth while contributing to developing valuable soft skills in the different areas in which a person develops.