Dec '19
The IUP Journal of Soft Skills
Focus
Learning is the prerequisite for any growth and advancement in life. There are many innovative methods to learn. However, a heavy reliance on external methods of learning is not efficacious than self-learning. Self-learning is innate in the DNA of individuals that with certain orientation, preparedness and dedication, anyone can master what they intend to learn. The second paper, "Enhancing Language Acquisition Through Self-Learning and Self-Assessment" by H Makwana Pradeep, focuses on the importance of self-learning in acquiring and enhancing language skills. The paper presents insights and strategies to enhance language through self-learning. The paper focuses on maieutic and mimetic approach towards language acquisition that brings out the latent knowledge and skills one already has.
In this world where the importance of diplomacy supersedes authenticity, expressing one's thoughts, feelings, and opinions in a candid way is not only difficult but also discouraged. Hence, many fail to present their views clearly and openly in an appropriate and respectful manner. Hence, several tend to become passive despite knowing that being assertive is an important trait to become a successful person. While many lack the skill to express effectively, many more are abrasive or hostile or insensitive in their expression of thoughts, feelings and behaviors. The last paper, "Respond, Don't React Be Assertive" by Revathi Turaga, highlights the importance of assertiveness and presents illuminating ideas to become assertive individuals.
Consulting Editor
The Importance of Soft Skills for Employability and Career Development: Students and Employers' Perspectives
Soft skills are important for seeking jobs as well as for a productive, successful and fulfilling career. The main objective of this study was to investigate students' perceptions of the importance of soft skills and their satisfaction with the level of skills possessed by them. In addition, the study also explored employers' expectations and satisfaction with the level of soft skills possessed by fresh graduates. Two questionnaires were used to collect data from students and employers. For the students' survey, 132 graduate students from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore participated in this study.
Enhancing Language Acquisition Through Self-Learning and Self-Assessment
Learning is a lifelong process. One can learn using different methods, but self-learning is effectively used today. With the surge of the Internet and e-devices, students have implemented self-learning through YouTube tutorials, quiz, online MCQs, flashcards or games. Moreover, enhancing language and improving LSRW skills through self-learning and selfassessment is the major focus of this paper. Students tend to learn through mobile or any Internet source which gradually helps them to enhance learning. This paper focuses on maieutic approach and mimetic approach towards language acquisition. In maieutic method, the students ask questions and play the role of teacher.
Respond, Don't React - Be Assertive
Assertive communication-a concept of late very much discussed in most corporates. On being asked what assertiveness means, a lot of employees relate it to being firm and straightforward and standing up for oneself and being polite to others. Many often, even confuse it with being diplomatic and getting away with ideal answers. Assertiveness may definitely be projected as one of these, however, it is in effect a combination of several other factors. Behavioral psychology defines a human being's actions as 'Response to Stimuli' from the environment. Every time something happens, instead of reacting instantaneously, learn to pause and think of possible cause and effect, i.e., possible reasons and consequences. An attitude of responding is most important today because that is the one choice we have in life! Research shows that as we learn to think and respond at work, conflicts reduce and more mature and composed discussions are possible, thus leading to effective teamwork and productivity. This paper explores how one can choose to respond with various techniques to practice.