Development and Validation of the 21st Century Skills Self-Efficacy Scale

• In Event: Measuring What Matters: Challenges and Opportunities in Assessing Critical Thinking

Abstract

This study developed and validated the Skills Self-Efficacy Scale (SSES), addressing measurement gaps in Problem-Solving, Communication, Creativity, Collaboration, and Critical Thinking. Using sequential mixed-methods design, we conducted qualitative exploration with 60 professionals, expert validation with 16 specialists, and psychometric evaluation with 126 participants. Thematic analysis revealed unique adult learner patterns, highlighting mastery experiences and technology integration challenges. Expert review yielded exceptional content validity (I-CVI = 0.94), while exploratory factor analysis revealed a six-factor structure explaining 58.8% variance with excellent reliability (α = 0.944). The 27-item scale demonstrates strong psychometric properties addressing dual academic-professional contexts. This instrument enables targeted interventions, supports competency-based education, and provides infrastructure for measuring human-centered capabilities in an AI-augmented economy, advancing theoretical understanding and practical assessment.

Authors

• Laura Thomsen Morello, University of Bridgeport

• John Chick, University of Bridgeport