A study on Social Skills among Higher Education Teachers

Abstract

India's rapidly changing higher education system with holistic development on teachers to possess both strong competences and subject-matter expertise. Globalization, digitalization, diverse classrooms, and learner-centered pedagogies have increased the demand on teachers to be empathetic, collaborative, and capable of handling conflict in a positive way. This study looks at how important social skills are for teachers in higher education and how they affect student involvement, classroom efficacy, and institutional quality. The study emphasizes the use of skills like active listening, flexibility, cooperation, and constructive criticism in creating welcoming, encouraging, and stimulating learning environments through an extensive analysis of Indian and international literature from the existing research. Results show that instructors with strong social skills have more professional satisfaction, resilience, and adaptability in addition to improving student results and holistic development. In line with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the study emphasizes the strategic significance of including social skill development into teacher training and professional development programs in India. All things considered, social skills are essential for producing graduates who are emotionally intelligent, socially conscious, and competitive in the global economy, as well as for enhancing the efficiency and long-term viability of higher education institutions and Teachers.