Original article | International Journal of Research in Teacher Education 2023, Vol. 14(3) 194-207
Positive and Negative Factors Shaping University Students’ Development of Life Skills
Harun Serpil
pp. 194 - 207 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.29329/ijrte.2023.598.13 | Manu. Number: MANU-2309-30-0010
Published online: September 30, 2023 | Number of Views: 34 | Number of Download: 143
Abstract
In today's world, it is more important than ever for university students to have a strong set of life skills in addition to their academic qualifications. The job market is becoming increasingly competitive, and employers are looking for employees who can think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. Additionally, the world is becoming increasingly complex and interconnected, and students need to be able to adapt to new challenges and thrive in this environment. The aim of this study is to reveal the factors that shape the life skills of university students. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through two open-ended survey questions from 176 students (91 males, 85 females) studying in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th year of five different faculties and a vocational school of two state universities (Uludağ and Kastamonu), who wrote their answers on the form handed out to them by the researcher. The collected data were analyzed by using SPSS. The results show that students mostly reported the positive contributions of family, internship experiences, personal efforts, reading books, support from close friends and the supportive social environment. As negative factors, the fact that previous education was based on memorization and exam-oriented, the cultural mindset of the place they live, the restrictions imposed by the family, spending too much time on social media, the lack of an environment that enhances personal development, the family being too protective and even the use of physical violence and lack of social support were highlighted. To improve their students’ life skills and prepare them better for life, universities can offer courses and workshops on life skills such as time management, financial literacy, communication skills, conflict resolution, and stress management. In addition, they can provide opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities to develop a variety of life skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. They can also cooperate with employers and community organizations to offer internships and volunteer opportunities to help students to gain real-world experience and develop their life skills. This study included participants only from two state universities. Further research may include multiple universities (both state and private) and a higher number of participants. It can also include the views of faculty members and parents. Researchers can also explore the impact of life skills on student success, develop effective interventions for developing life skills, and examine the role of different stakeholders and factors in supporting student development of life skills.
Keywords: Higher education, university students, life skills
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