Soft Skills Measurement and Tool Development in East Africa

Group Submission Type: Formal Panel Session

Proposal

This panel presents a group of distinguished experts specializing in the assessment of soft skills, with a specific focus on East Africa, while drawing valuable insights that extend to other regions as well. The scope of soft skills covered in these presentations is comprehensive, encompassing (a) creativity, (b) collaboration, problem-solving, self-awareness, and respect, and (c) social-emotional learning. The core theme of the presentations revolves around both the development of innovative tools to measure these essential soft skills and the exploration of their correlation with academic learning outcomes.

As the education landscape evolves, there is a growing recognition of the significance of holistic learning approaches. Thus, this panel assumes particular relevance, as it paves the way for advancing valid and reliable soft skill assessments and measures. By delving into the diverse dimensions of soft skills and their influence on academic achievement, these experts aim to shed light on the intricacies of human development and its implications for education.

By examining the unique context of East Africa, this panel acknowledges the region's distinct socio-cultural aspects and seeks to offer insights that are adaptable and applicable across various settings. As we aspire to nurture well-rounded individuals who can thrive in an ever-changing world, understanding the dynamics of soft skill measurement becomes crucial.

Furthermore, this gathering of experts not only emphasizes the theoretical aspects of soft skills but also highlights their practical implications in real-world scenarios. By focusing on tool development, the panel strives to provide researchers, educators, policymakers, and practitioners with valuable resources that enable the cultivation of soft skills in students effectively.

In conclusion, this panel represents a pivotal opportunity to explore the multifaceted nature of soft skills assessment and its role in shaping a more inclusive and comprehensive educational framework. As we advance towards a future that demands adaptable and emotionally intelligent individuals, the insights shared during this panel can propel us towards fostering a generation empowered with a profound understanding of soft skills and their undeniable impact on lifelong learning and success.

Sub Unit

• Africa SIG

Chair

• Marlana Salmon-Letelier, IRC Teachers College

Individual Presentations

• Measuring Creativity in Protracted Crises - Marlana Salmon-Letelier, IRC Teachers College; Lauren Pisani, The Palladium Group; Jonathan Kwok, International Rescue Committee

• Using evidence on 21st century skills to inspire practice: Findings from the Assessment of Life Skills and Values in East Africa - Purity Ngina, Zizi Afrique Foundation; Martin Ariapa, Luigi Giussani Institute of Higher Education; Mauro Giacomazzi, Luigi Giussani Institute of Higher Education

• Social Emotional Learning and Inequalities in Academic Achievement: Evidence from Kenya, Ethiopia, Peru, India and Vietnam - Matthew Jukes, RTI International

Discussant

• John Mugo, Zizi Afrique Foundation