The “skills emergency” highlights a significant gap in graduates’ communication and interpersonal skills, with 83% of job applicants in New Zealand lacking adequate communication abilities, according to a 2023 survey. This issue is particularly severe in the tech sector, where 82% of IT job ads emphasize soft skills. In response, universities, like the University of Canterbury, are embedding soft skills into their curricula, aiming to develop competencies beyond technical knowledge. However, traditional teaching methods fall short in fostering these skills, as active participation is essential. Distance learning further exacerbates this issue by limiting real-time interactions. AI, such as the Aisla application, offers innovative solutions for skill development by simulating real-world conversations in a judgment-free environment. This tool has received positive feedback from students, highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing critical thinking and communication. As educational institutions align more with employer expectations, AI emerges as a scalable approach to soft skills training.
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