Self-perception of transversal skills with an emphasis on research in postgraduate students

Abstract

Transversal skills impact research work to strengthen the skills of graduate students. They enrich the teaching and learning process for students, maximize their academic careers, and enhance their experiences to adapt to the workforce, making their studies important. The objective or this study was to determine self-perception of transversal research skills among graduate students. The study used a quantitative methodology with a cross-sectional and non-experimental design as well as an exploratory and descriptive scope. The sample was probabilistic and stratified. The instrument was a Likert-scale survey with 30 items, which were measured and coded through five response levels: strongly agree, somewhat agree, neutral, somewhat disagree, and disagree. The transversal skills were organized into instrumental, interpersonal, and systemic skills that were subdivided into verbal communication skills, written expression, leadership, teamwork, discernment, reflection, and critical thinking. The findings obtained reveal that the skills most that are most self-perceived by participants were systemic-thinking skills, followed by instrumental skills. Interpersonal skills came in third with a statistically smaller margin yet was observed as the skill that requires most attention. Strengthening leadership and teamwork skills is recommended, as they are essential for student development. As a practical contribution, the results of this study provide graduate institutions, research departments, and teaching staff with guidance for advancing work on transversal skills among graduate students.