Soft skills on the teaching-learning process:
empirical, methodological analysis and educational perspectives
Las
habilidades blandas en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje: análisis empírico,
metodológico y perspectivas educativas
|
Julio Ernesto
Mora Aristega Universidad Técnica de
Babahoyo ORCID: 0000-0002-9928-9179 Angélica Margara
Mora Aristega Universidad Técnica de
Babahoyo ORCID: 0000-0003-0461-7801 Nancy Elizabeth Uhsca Cuzco Universidad Técnica de Babahoyo ORCID: 0000-0001-7719-1659 Reyes Johan Calderón Angulo Universidad Técnica de Babahoyo ORCID: 0009-0003-3258-3853 |
![]()
ABSTRACT
The development of soft skills is a fundamental pillar of contemporary
education, directly impacting students' academic performance, motivation, and
professional preparation. This article reviews how interpersonal skills such as
leadership, communication, teamwork, and resilience impact formal and informal
learning, with special emphasis on recent studies conducted in higher
education. Statistical correlations are analyzed, and their methodological relevance
for curricular integration and teacher training is discussed. The results
demonstrate a significant and sustained correlation between soft skills and
academic performance, favoring students' professional success and
socioemotional well-being. Furthermore, current challenges are identified,
along with recommendations for implementing educational policies aimed at
comprehensive development.
RESUMEN
El desarrollo de
habilidades blandas constituye un pilar fundamental en la educación
contemporánea, afectando directamente el rendimiento académico, la motivación y
la preparación profesional de los estudiantes. Este artículo revisa cómo
competencias interpersonales como liderazgo, comunicación, trabajo en equipo y
resiliencia impactan el aprendizaje formal e informal, con especial énfasis en
estudios recientes realizados en educación superior. Se analizan correlaciones
estadísticas y se discute la relevancia metodológica para la integración
curricular y la formación docente. Los resultados demuestran que la correlación
entre habilidades blandas y rendimiento académico es significativa y sostenida,
favoreciendo el éxito profesional y el bienestar socioemocional de los
estudiantes. Además, se identifican retos actuales y recomendaciones para
implementar políticas educativas orientadas al desarrollo integral.
Keywords / Palabras clave
Soft skills,
teaching-learning, learning outcomes, pedagogy, educational perspectives
Habilidades
blandas, enseñanza – aprendizaje, resultados de aprendizaje, pedagogía,
perspectivas educativas
Introduction
The concept
of soft skills has become particularly relevant in higher and secondary
education, being considered by international organizations such as the United
Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the World
Economic Forum, and the AAC&U as a key competency for the 21st century.
Unlike technical (hard) skills, soft skills include emotional intelligence,
resilience, leadership, communication, conflict management, and adaptability
(Cardenas-Otavalo et al., 2025).
Soft
skills, also known as interpersonal or socio-emotional skills, are those
abilities that facilitate effective and positive interaction with others and
with the environment. These include effective communication, teamwork, problem
solving, creativity, empathy, leadership, and emotional intelligence. Not only
do they complement technical skills, but they also have intrinsic value for
everyday and professional life, making them an essential element of
comprehensive training (Zumba-Hidalgo et al., 2021).
Several
studies show that these skills are essential for responding to the challenges
of a changing society, where collaborative work, critical thinking, and
professional ethics are valued in the workplace and in education. However,
their development remains insufficient in many institutions, limiting students'
employability and overall development. The objective of this article is to
analyze the influence of soft skills in the teaching-learning process, describe
methods of integration, and propose future lines of research to consolidate
their curricular and professional relevance (Aguilar-Vargas et al., 2020).
Soft skills
are an essential component of the teaching-learning process that transcends the
mere acquisition of academic knowledge and specific techniques, promoting
comprehensive human development. Currently, these interpersonal and
socio-emotional skills are becoming increasingly important in education systems
due to their positive impact on academic performance, student satisfaction and
well-being, and preparation for the various challenges of professional and
social life (Aguilar-Vargas et.al, 2020).
The rationale for soft skills in education
Soft skills
comprise a set of competencies such as effective communication, teamwork,
empathy, leadership, resilience, time management, decision-making, and conflict
resolution, among others. These skills not only enable better social
interaction inside and outside the classroom, but also form a basis for
critical thinking, independent learning, and balanced emotional development.
Unlike technical or hard skills, which are specific to a subject or discipline,
soft skills are cross-cutting and applicable to multiple contexts
In the teaching-learning process, these skills
play a mediating and facilitating role. From a pedagogical perspective, the
development of soft skills allows students to take an active role in their
learning, participate with greater commitment in group dynamics, and manage
their emotions to face academic challenges with resilience and confidence
The importance of soft skills in education.
The
importance of soft skills in the teaching and learning process lies in the need
to develop well-rounded individuals who are capable not only of acquiring
theoretical knowledge, but also of functioning effectively in personal, social,
and professional environments. Today, the challenges of the 21st century
require education to go beyond the transmission of content, integrating
emotional development, adaptability, and social competence (Perez-Ximenez ,
2025).
Educational Relevance in the 21st century.
The current
context, characterized by a highly technological, corporate, and dynamic world,
demands that citizens be flexible, creative, resilient, and capable of relating
harmoniously with others. In this scenario, soft skills are considered
essential not only to adapt to constant change, but also to transform those
changes into opportunities for personal, social, and professional growth
Education in the 21st century must prioritize
the development of these skills, promoting learning that goes beyond
memorization and focuses on reflection, participation, and collaboration. This
will produce individuals with the skills to understand themselves, manage their
emotions, resolve conflicts, and contribute positively to society
(Lozano-Fernandez et al., 2022).
Specific contributions to the teaching-learning process
They enable
the creation of more humane, respectful, and democratic educational
environments, where all students feel valued and listened to
(Zelendon-Rodriguez, 2024).
They
promote the creation of strong emotional bonds between teachers and students,
which enhances motivation and commitment to learning (Perez-Ximenez , 2025).
They
promote active participation and cooperative learning, facilitating the
acquisition of practical skills and the development of collaborative projects (Zelendon-Rodriguez, 2024).
They
improve adaptation to new and changing contexts, providing strategies for
managing stress, frustration, and decision-making (Zelendon-Rodriguez,
2024).
Son fundamentales para incluir la diversidad y la equidad, al considerar las capacidades emocionales y relacionales de cada persona en el proceso educativo (Zumba-Hidalgo
et al., 2021).
Impact on teacher training
The
development of soft skills is not only relevant for students; it is also
crucial for teachers. An educator who communicates assertively, manages their
emotions appropriately, is empathetic and flexible, can lead the classroom in a
positive way, resolve conflicts, and guide the comprehensive development of
students. This, in turn, contributes to an innovative, inclusive school culture
that is adapted to the current times
Methodologies and strategies for the development
The
promotion of soft skills should be integrated into school and university
curricula through active and participatory methodologies. Some effective
strategies include:
· Group and collaborative work to develop leadership, teamwork, and
assertive communication (Zelendon-Rodriguez, 2024).
· Integrative projects that challenge creativity and
problem-solving skills.
· Debate and discussion activities to strengthen
critical thinking and respect for diversity of opinion.
· Feedback and self-assessment practices, promoting
metacognition and emotional self-awareness.
Furthermore,
the implementation of educational models based on social-emotional learning,
such as service learning and gamification, have proven to be effective in
acquiring these skills (Perez-Ximenez, 2025).
Repercussions in the professional and social spheres
Various
studies have confirmed that soft skills are currently as highly valued as
technical skills in the workplace. Companies and organizations seek
professionals who are capable of leading, adapting to new challenges, working
in diverse teams, and communicating effectively. Therefore, graduates who have
mastered these skills have greater opportunities and success in the job market
On a social level, soft skills training
contributes to building more empathetic, supportive, and inclusive communities,
where people can coexist and resolve conflicts peacefully and constructively
(Perez-Ximenez, 2025).
Challenges on the implementation
Despite the
benefits, it is important to note that the effective integration of these
skills into education faces some challenges. Assessing soft skills is more
complex than assessing academic knowledge and requires specific tools, as well
as ongoing training for teachers. Furthermore, cultural context can influence
the perception and priority of certain skills, making a contextualized and
flexible approach necessary (Zumba-Hidalgo et al., 2021).
Influence in communication
and participation
One of the
most obvious impacts of soft skills in education is improved communication. The
ability to express oneself clearly and listen actively promotes interaction
between students and teachers, creating a more dynamic and stimulating
classroom environment. This effective communication enhances collaborative
knowledge building and peaceful conflict resolution, which are fundamental
aspects of meaningful learning (Ayala-Corzo et al., 2024).
On the other hand, assertive communication
helps students participate more frequently and effectively in debates,
presentations, and group work, which increases their motivation and academic
self-esteem. Likewise, teachers with strong soft skills are able to adapt their
teaching styles to the emotional and cognitive needs of their students, making
assessment and feedback processes more effective (Ladino Pulgarin et al.,
2022).
Group work and collaboration
Collaborative
work is another skill that promotes the effective inclusion of soft skills in
education. By learning to collaborate, students develop skills to listen to and
value different perspectives, manage differences, and contribute constructively
to the achievement of common goals. This process improves their sense of
belonging and social responsibility, which in turn reduces dropout rates and
promotes school retention (Espinoza-Mina & Gallegos- Barzola, 2020).
In addition, group dynamics encourage critical
thinking and creativity, which are important for both academic projects and
everyday life. For example, by participating in multidisciplinary projects,
students practice negotiation, leadership, and coordination, skills that
increase their ability to solve complex problems effectively (Zambrano-Patino
et al., 2025).
Time management and
academic organization
Time
management is a crucial soft skill for planning and executing academic
activities. Students who develop this skill learn to prioritize tasks, meet
deadlines, and organize their workload in a balanced way, reducing stress and
improving their overall performance. Through proper time management, students
can also integrate better extracurricular and personal development activities,
contributing to their comprehensive education (Cardenas-Otavalo et al., 2025).
This aspect is especially relevant at higher
levels of education, where autonomy and self-organization are essential for
managing the complexity and independence required in university studies.
Teachers can support this development by designing clear schedules, teaching
organizational techniques, and promoting effective study habits (Ayala-Corzo et
al.,2024).
Leadership and resilience
for adaptation and academic success
Leadership
involves the ability to positively influence others and to manage human and
material resources toward the achievement of educational objectives. This soft
skill is closely related to autonomy and the ability to make informed
decisions, encouraging students to take an active role in their education
(Zambrano-Patino et al., 2025).
Resilience, meanwhile, enables students to
remain motivated and persevere in the face of obstacles such as academic or
personal difficulties. Developing this skill is vital for reducing school
dropout rates and strengthening confidence in learning, especially in highly
demanding or uncertain contexts (Cardenas-Otavalo et al., 2025).
Empathy and positive school
climate
Empathy
helps build positive relationships among all members of the educational
community. When students and teachers practice empathy, respect, tolerance, and
cooperation increase significantly, creating a healthy school climate that
facilitates the learning process. This positive climate translates into less
conflict, greater emotional security, and a favorable disposition toward
experimentation and error, all of which are necessary for innovation and
critical thinking (Zambrano-Patino et al., 2025).
Integration into
educational practice and challenges
For soft
skills to have a real and sustainable impact on the teaching-learning process,
they need to be integrated across the curriculum and pedagogical practices.
Strategies such as project-based learning, social-emotional workshops, group
dynamics, and the use of interactive technologies are effective tools for
developing these skills (Montaño-Bautista et al., 2024).
However, there are challenges that limit their
effective incorporation. These include the lack of specific teacher training,
the absence of standardized assessment mechanisms for soft skills, and the
persistence of educational models that prioritize exclusively the acquisition
of technical knowledge (Zambrano-Patino et al., 2025).
Another important challenge is the cultural and
social diversity of students, which requires adapting strategies to the
particular context of each group in order to promote the equitable development
of these skills.
Educational perspectives based on soft skills
Educational
approaches based on soft skills point toward a comprehensive transformation of
the teaching-learning process, focused on students' human, emotional, and
social development. These approaches respond to the challenges of the 21st
century, where technical knowledge is insufficient without solid
social-emotional skills (Barcia-Menendez, et al., 2024).
Socioemotional Perspective
Social-emotional
learning seeks to integrate emotional management, empathy, and ethical
decision-making into the educational curriculum. According to UNESCO, these
skills strengthen academic performance, coexistence, and the construction of
more inclusive and sustainable societies. This perspective promotes an
education that prioritizes emotional well-being and a sense of community
Humanistic pedagogical perspective
The
humanistic approach to pedagogy considers soft skills (such as communication,
collaboration, leadership, and self-management) to be at the core of meaningful
learning. It promotes person-centered educational environments, where students
are the protagonists of their own development and teachers act as emotional and
cognitive guides (Malaga-Mamani et al., 2025).
Digital and technological perspective
In virtual
education and hybrid environments, institutions incorporate digital tools to
strengthen skills such as adaptability, critical thinking, and effective
communication. Strategies such as microlearning, gamification, and AI
simulations facilitate experiential learning and self-regulation. This approach
prepares students for changing work contexts, prioritizing human interaction
over the mere transmission of content (Trascend - IT,
2025).
Curricular and Formative Perspective
Education
systems are adopting curriculum models that integrate social-emotional
development across the board, from early childhood education to higher
education. Teacher training programs in social-emotional skills are being
promoted so that teachers can serve as models of resilience, empathy, and
positive leadership. This training approach improves the quality of learning
and strengthens school life
Perspective on employability and citizenship
Globally,
organizations such as the World Economic Forum highlight that more than 50% of
workers will need new socio-emotional skills by 2030. In this context, soft
skills-based education connects academic training with employability, promoting
critical, ethical, and collaborative citizens with the ability to adapt and
think creatively in the face of social and technological challenges
Materials and Methods
The
research underlying this article was mixed method, with a quantitative focus,
based on a systematic review and field analysis conducted between 2024 and
2025. A representative sample of 122 marketing students at a higher education
institution was selected, with a confidence level of 95% and a margin of error
of 5%. The data collection instruments included structured questionnaires with
Likert scales to measure soft skills and academic performance. The reliability
of the instrument was ensured through expert validation and the calculation of
Cronbach's alpha (0.945).
Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS
software, employing Pearson's correlation (r), linear regression analysis, and
ANOVA methods to examine the relationship between dependent and independent
variables. The surveys were administered anonymously to ensure the accuracy of
responses and minimize self-perception bias, with questions inquiring about
confidence in expressing oneself, teamwork skills, conflict resolution, and
time management.
Results
a)
Correlations y statistic relations
The
statistical model showed a strong positive correlation between soft skills and
academic performance (r=0.847), with an explained variance of 71.7% (adjusted R
squared). The coefficient indicates that for each additional point on the soft
skills scale, the academic average increases by 0.1983 points. The regression
model was statistically significant according to ANOVA (F=309.395, p<0.001),
confirming the relevance of soft skills as a predictor of student performance
(Cardenas-Otavalo et al., 2025).
In the
group dimension, confidence in expressing ideas showed a positive correlation
with the ability to explain concepts clearly (r=0.748, p<0.01) and
adaptation in collaborative roles (r=0.645, p<0.01). Consideration of group
opinions showed a significant relationship with conflict resolution (r=0.644,
p<0.01), while efficient time management was linked to the planning and
organization of academic activities (r=0.714, p<0.01) (Zambrano-Patino et
al., 2025).
b) Influence on educational and professional
dimensions
The
development of soft skills has a direct impact on cognitive learning,
self-efficacy, and emotional management, both in students and teachers.
Research shows that 100% of students with high levels of soft skills achieve
better grades and results in group projects, as well as greater motivation and
lower dropout rates. In addition, soft skills account for 75% of long-term
professional success, compared to 25% related to technical skills
(Cardenas-Otavalo et.al, 2025).
c) Impact on interaction and school climate
Teachers
who promote soft skills report more inclusive, respectful, and motivating
school environments. There is an increased sense of belonging, autonomy, and
creativity. In collaborative projects, students develop leadership, resilience,
and emotional management skills, which are vital for dealing with conflict
situations and making strategic decisions. (Zambrano-Patino et al., 2025).
d) Summary table: principal correlations
Table 1
Correlation between soft skills and associated factors
|
SOFT SKILLS |
CORRELATION WITH PERFORMANCE ( |
ASSOCIATED FACTORS |
|
Communication |
0,748 |
Clear
explanation, participation |
|
Collaborative work |
0,644 |
Conflict resolution |
|
Time
management |
0,714 |
Organization
and planning |
|
Leadership and resilience |
0,727 |
Adaptation, decision-making |
Note: The
table shows the correlation between soft skills applied in the teaching process
and factors associated with education.
The
integration of soft skills reveals a multiplier effect, supported by
Social-Emotional Learning Theory (Durlak et al., 2011), which indicates that
the development of emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills is the basis
for academic and professional success. UNESCO (2024) emphasizes that
mainstreaming these competencies into the curriculum increases emotional and
personal well-being, as well as preparing students for a dynamic and demanding
job market (Zambrano-Patino et al., 2025).
Several authors point out that a lack of soft
skills can lead to social isolation, negatively affecting students' physical
and mental health, self-esteem, and life purpose. The gap between what the
workplace demands and what the education system offers is still significant.
Mina and Barzola (2020) confirm that many companies report difficulties in
finding graduates with strong social-emotional skills, which hinders young
people's adaptability and employability. (Cardenas-Otavalo et al., 2025).
The modern teaching-learning process requires
active methodologies such as Project-Based Learning, group dynamics, the use of
digital technologies, and gamification, which promote the intentional
development of soft skills. Evidence indicates that participation in
collaborative and leadership activities encourages reflection, critical
thinking, and creativity, which are essential for educational innovation and
the resolution of emerging problems (Montaño- Bautista et al., 2024).
However, there are methodological and structural
challenges. The traditional education system prioritizes the assessment of
cognitive skills, relegating soft skills to the background. In addition,
objective measurement and longitudinal tracking present difficulties; the use
of self-assessments can introduce bias and subjectivity, so experts recommend
combining quantitative and qualitative instruments to obtain more accurate
results (Zambrano-Patino et al., 2025).
International literature points to relevant
contextual differences. For example, studies conducted in Vietnam and China
show that the perception of the impact of soft skills on academic performance
varies according to the education system, discipline, and culture. This raises
the need for comparative and longitudinal studies to understand how contextual
differences influence the relationship between emotional intelligence and
academic success. (Cardenas-Otavalo et al., 2025).
Table 2
Digital strategies for developing soft skills
|
Strategy |
Suggested Tool |
Enhanced soft skill |
|
Gamified
challenges |
Kahoot!, Classcraft |
Adaptability,
teamwork |
|
Personalized microlearning |
LMS with adaptative AI, MiaT+ |
Self-management, critical thinking |
|
Interactive
rubrics |
Google
Classroom, Moodle, MiaT+ |
Communication,
critical thinking |
|
Virtual communities |
WhatsApp, Discord |
Collaboration, communication |
|
Simulations
and role-play |
Articulate
360, VR/AR |
Decision-making,
leadership |
Note. The
table shows the activities that can be used to develop soft skills in the
educational process.
The table
shows an effective alignment between teaching strategies, technological tools,
and the development of soft skills, placing innovation and active learning as
pillars of current training.
Integration of strategies and tools
Gamified
challenges using tools such as Kahoot! and Classcraft
not only encourage motivation and participation, but also reinforce
adaptability and teamwork, essential skills for life and the modern workplace.
Gamification has been shown to increase student engagement, allowing for
learning from mistakes in safe and collaborative environments.
Personalized
microlearning, using LMS platforms with adaptive artificial intelligence such
as MiaT+, allows content to be tailored to individual pace and needs, promoting
self-management and critical thinking. This personalization optimizes learning
time and reinforces autonomous development.
Interactive
rubrics in environments such as Google Classroom, Moodle, and MiaT+ are
essential for clarifying expectations and providing immediate feedback. They facilitate
formative assessment, strengthening communication and critical thinking, as
students are active participants in the assessment process.
Virtual
communities, using applications such as WhatsApp and Discord, encourage
collaboration and effective communication. These tools transfer learning to the
digital-social space, allowing for constant interaction, the exchange of ideas,
and the construction of academic support networks.
Simulations
and role-play, using resources such as Articulate 360 and virtual/augmented
reality (VR/AR) environments, offer immersive contexts for decision-making and
leadership. The experiential learning gained from simulations facilitates the
transfer of social and technical skills to real-world contexts.
Pedagogical Impact and trends
hese
combinations strengthen active learning, facilitate students' comprehensive
development, and respond to the challenges of education in the 21st century.
Instructional design based on soft skills promotes adaptability to
technological changes and the development of cross-cutting skills demanded in
the professional world, fostering resilient and collaborative citizens.
Education
systems must move toward the continuous and systematic integration of soft
skills, incorporating active methodologies, educational technologies, and
strategies that promote reflection, autonomy, collaborative work, and emotional
management. In addition, it is necessary to develop educational policies that
prioritize teacher training and education, together with the creation of
objective and adaptive assessment tools.
Table 3
Influence between soft skills and learning aspects
|
SOFT SKILL |
ASPECT OF LEARNING AFFECTED |
OBSERVED INFLUENCE |
|
Communication |
Participation
and expression of ideas |
Improved
clarity and interaction |
|
Collaborative work |
Problem solving and group dynamics |
Increased cooperation and conflict management |
|
Time
management |
Academic
organization and planning |
Greater
efficiency in tasks and projects |
|
Leadership |
Decision making and autonomy |
Encourages initiative and adaptation |
|
Emotional
resilience |
Dealing
with frustration and adaptation |
Reduced
dropout rates and greater persistence |
|
Empathy |
School environment and coexistence |
Greater respect and tolerance |
Note: The
table shows the influence of soft skills on aspects of learning.
The table
shows the impact of each soft skill on essential aspects of the
teaching-learning process. From a scientific perspective, this evidence is part
of a growing body of research that highlights the fundamental role of
social-emotional skills in enhancing both academic performance and the overall
development of students.
Communication
not only promotes participation and assertive expression of ideas, but also
fosters the creation of collaborative environments in which the exchange of
opinions is carried out with respect and clarity. This results in increased
motivation and improved learning quality, as documented by several authors who
point out that assertive communication is a key competency for effective
interaction in heterogeneous classrooms (Ayala-Corzo et al., 2024).
Collaborative work is evident as one of the most
relevant soft skills for problem solving and conflict management in the
classroom. By encouraging cooperation, a sense of belonging and commitment is
strengthened, which reduces dropout rates and improves academic persistence
(Cadillo-Leiva et al., 2021); furthermore, collaboration enhances the
development of critical and creative thinking, which are essential elements for
tackling academic challenges and current professionals (Ayala-Corzo et al.,
2024).
In terms of
time management, this skill contributes to effective organization and task
planning, both of which are essential for achieving academic goals. The ability
to manage study time and projects improves self-efficacy and reduces stress,
aspects that are closely linked to academic success, as demonstrated in various
studies (Cardenas-Otavalo et al.,2025).
Leadership and resilience are soft skills that
promote autonomy, informed decision-making, and the ability to cope with
adversity, factors that positively influence students' adaptation to new
contexts and the dynamics of project-based or collaborative learning. The
development of these skills is also linked to lower dropout rates and higher
levels of self-efficacy (Zambrano- Patino et al., 2025).
Finally, empathy plays a fundamental role in
improving the school climate, promoting attitudes of respect, tolerance, and
emotional well-being, which are essential for learning to take place in a
positive environment. Empathy facilitates group cohesion and helps students
feel valued and motivated to actively participate in their educational process
In summary, scientific evidence supports the
idea that deliberately integrating soft skills into pedagogical models is a
fundamental educational strategy for promoting effective learning and the
comprehensive development of students. Its impact is evident in significant
improvements in academic results, social-emotional well-being, and preparation
for the world of work.
These
findings suggest an urgent need for educational policies and curricula to
incorporate the development and assessment of soft skills in a cross-cutting
and systematic manner to ensure that students not only accumulate knowledge but
also develop the skills necessary to apply it effectively in real and complex
contexts. In addition, there is an urgent need to strengthen the continuing
education of teachers so that they can implement innovative pedagogical
strategies geared toward this purpose (Lozano-Fernandez et al., 2022).
Conclusions
The
evidence gathered allows us to affirm that soft skills are a central component
in the teaching-learning process and in professional training. The positive and
significant correlation with academic performance and professional success
validates the urgency of mainstreaming these skills at all educational levels,
from the curriculum to teacher training and adaptive assessment.
The
development of soft skills not only improves academic performance but also
prepares students to successfully face the challenges of professional,
personal, and social life, facilitating the transition to the labor market and
consolidating inclusive well-being. Soft skills are indispensable for
optimizing the teaching-learning process, as they facilitate communication,
collaborative work, personal organization, resilience, and the creation of
inclusive and motivating educational environments. Their development promotes not
only academic success but also personal growth and preparation for professional
and social life. The development of soft skills in teaching and learning
processes is not just an educational trend, but an urgent need to train
individuals capable of responding to the challenges of today's world. Their
systematic inclusion in the curriculum and teaching practice ensures the
preparation of well-rounded, committed, and happy individuals, benefiting both
the individual and society.
The
available academic evidence highlights the need for educational policies that
promote their integration into the curriculum and teacher training in these
skills, as well as the development of rigorous and adaptive assessment tools
that allow for the identification of progress and areas for improvement. This
ensures a comprehensive education focused on the development of competent,
resilient individuals who are committed to their environment.
References
Cárdenas
Otavalo, M. E., Tinto Arandes, J., & Andrade Pezantes , D. (2025). Impacto
de las habilidades blandas en el rendimiento académico de estudiantes de
marketing en instituciones de educación superior. Runas: Journal of Education
and Culture.
Zambrano Patino , A. C., Castro Cortez , V. C., & García Hevia , S.
(27 de 06 de 2025). Desarrollo de competencias blandas en estudiantes de
bachillerato de ciencias. Sinergía Académica, 08(04).
https://sinergiaacademica.com/index.php/sa/article/view/601
Montaño Bautista , J. C., Suquitana Reyes, T. M., Alvarado Veliz , V. A.,
& Barragan Paredes, J. J. (06 de 11 de 2024). Desarrollo de habilidades
blandas a través de metodologías activas en la educación básica. Dominio de las
ciencias, 10(4). doi:https://doi.org/10.23857/dc.v10i4.4085
Ayala Corzo, C., Álvarez Nuñez , E. A., Villanueva Chávez , M. L., &
Carpio Mendoza, J. (01 de 07 de 2024). Impacto de las habilidades blandas en la
educación básica. Tribunal.
doi:https://doi.org/10.59659/revistatribunal.v4i8.57
Machado, M., & Rivera, L. (09 de 2023). Importancia de la habilidades
blandas en el proyecto de vida de los estudiantes de educación media. Revista
Chakiñan de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades.
doi:https://doi.org/10.37135/chk.002.21.13
Lozano Fernandez, M. A., Lozano Fernández , E. N., & Ortega Cabrejos,
M. Y. (02 de 08 de 2022). Habilidades blandas una clave para brindar educación
de calidad: revisión teórica. Conrado, 18(87).
http://scielo.sld.cu/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1990-86442022000400412
Aguilar Vargas, L. I., Alcántara Llanas, I. T., & Braun Mondragón, K.
A. (2020). Impacto del pensamiento crítico en las habilidades para el campo
laboral. (U. A. Paraguay, Ed.) Academo, 166 -174. doi:
http://dx.doi.org/10.30545/academo.2020.jul-dic.7
Ruhalahti, S., & Heinonen, V. (15 de 05 de 2024). Enfoque Educación.
Recuperado el 13 de 10 de 2025, de Habilidades blandas en la educación: claves
para empoderar a los docentes:
https://blogs.iadb.org/educacion/es/habilidades-blandas/
Ladino Pulgarín, C. E., Valencia Hurtado, K. J., & López Ortiz , L.
S. (25 de 11 de 2022). Un minuto edu. (C. U. Dios, Editor).
https://repository.uniminuto.edu/items/e7f047d5-f62b-4249-b3ad-25e0c44d9f14
Espinoza Mina, M. A., & Gallegos Barzola, D. (2020). Habilidades
blandas en la educación y la empresa: Mapeo Sistemático. Revista Cientifica
UIsrael, 07(02). doi:https://doi.org/10.35290/rcui.v7n2.2020.245
Zumba Hidalgo, S. N., Quinde Tenemea, J. V., Lata Tigre, S. C., &
Espinoza Álvarez , C. A. (11 de 2021). La importancia del fomento de las
habilidades blandas en la educación. Revista de estudiantes Illari.
https://revistas.unae.edu.ec/index.php/illari/article/view/635
Pérez Ximénez , M. (2025). ACADE - Educación Privada. La importancia de
las habilidades blandas en la educación del siglo XXI:
https://educacionprivada.org/nuestros-centros/2024-12-11/53999
Universidad Tecnológica del Perú. (11 de 07 de 2023). ¿Qué son las
habilidades blandas y por qué son importantes?:
https://www.utp.edu.pe/blog/que-son-habilidades-blandas
Zelendón Rodriguez, C. (23 de 02 de 2024). CENSA. Importancia de las
habilidades blandas en la educación:
https://censa.cr/importancia-de-la-habilidades-blandas-en-la-educacion/
Universidad Tecnológica del Perú. (13 de 12 de 2023). Escuela de
Posgrado. Habilidades blandas en la educación:
https://www.postgradoutp.edu.pe/blog/a/habilidades-blandas-en-la-educacion/
ISPRING. (26 de 09 de 2024). Habilidades blandas: cómo desarrollar estas
competencias en las empresas: https://www.ispring.es/blog/soft-skills
UNESCO. (30 de 12 de 2024). UNESCO. Lo que hay que saber sobre el
aprendizaje socioemocional:
https://www.unesco.org/es/articles/lo-que-hay-que-saber-sobre-el-aprendizaje-socioemocional
Málaga Mamani, E., Málaga Mamani, R., Machaca Gonza, R., & Mamani
Guillen, Y. O. (01 de 04 de 2025). Habilidades blandas en docentes: una
revisión sistemática. Revista Tribunal, 05(11).
doi:https://doi.org/http://doi.org/10.59659/revistatribunal.v5i11.142
Trascend - IT. (2025). Trascend - IT. Habilidades blandas clave en clases
virtuales 2025:
https://trascendit-corp.com/habilidades-blandas-clases-virtuales-2025/
Ministerio de Educación. (2025). Inserción Curricular: Educación
Socioemocional. Ministerio de Educación.
https://educacion.gob.ec/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2024/09/insercion-curricular-educacion-socioemocional.pdf
Barcia Menéndez, J. G., Carvajar Zambrano, B. T., Boyes Fuller , E. S.,
Cantos Muñiz, Y. B., Murillo Herrera, A. Y., & Zambrano Loor, R. (2024).
Desarrollo de habilidades blandas en educación. Guayaquil, Guayas, Ecuador:
Centro de Investigaciòn y Desarrollo del Ecuador.
doi:https://doi.org/10.33996/cide.ecuador.DH2679260