Predicting Student Teamwork and Adaptability through Ethical Soft Skills: A Structural Model

Abdolrahim Gheyassia¹ Amir Alambeigi²

1) Assistant Professor, Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran. Email:
2) Associate Professor, Agricultural Extension and Education, Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.

IOI Code : ACZE-ACZGBE
Publication : 10th.International Congress of Developing Agriculture, Natural Resources, Environment and Tourism of Iran(10icsda.ir)
Abstract :
    Within the employability literature, there exists evidence suggesting that soft skills exert influence on other soft skills. However, empirical evidence on this matter remains insufficient. Therefore, this study aims to explore the impact of ethical soft skills on teamwork soft skills and adaptability soft skills among agricultural students. This quantitative research analyzed 384 questionnaires, employing a five-point Likert scale and employing a multi-stage sampling technique. The structural equation model approach was utilized for analysis, focusing on final-year undergraduate agricultural students in public universities in Iran. The findings of the research indicate a significant influence of ethical soft skills on both teamwork and adaptability soft skills. Thus, this study not only empirically validates aspects of existing theoretical literature but also elucidates the mechanism through which ethical soft skills influence teamwork and adaptability soft skills. Unveiling the mechanism through which soft skills influence one another, such as the ability to forecast teamwork and adaptability skills based on ethical soft skills, facilitates skill development. This understanding can persuade policymakers and decision-makers to prioritize the cultivation of a select few critical soft skills. This research offers fresh perspectives on enhancing soft skills within higher agricultural education. Additionally, its primary contribution lies in the empirical evidence demonstrating that soft skills effectively foster the development of other soft skills.

Keywords : ethical skills teamwork skills adaptability skills soft skills pls sem