تطوير المهارات الناعمة للقيادات الأكاديمية في الجامعات الحكومية السعودية: تصور مقترح

Abstract EN

Soft skills of academic leaders are considered among the core expertise affecting performance effectiveness.

Based on this perception, this study aimed to propose a vision for developing soft skills for academic leaders by assessing its level from the point of view of faculty members, and then identifying methods for developing these skills from the point of view of the leaders themselves.

To achieve this objective, a descriptive approach was adopted where data was collected using a questionnaire and an interview.

The sample comprised 391 faculty members from public universities, and 18 academic leaders who were interviewed.

The most notable results were : First, the level of soft skills for academic leaders in Saudi universities is assessed as average at a score of (3.31/5), while only three soft skills received high averages, and these were self-confidence, adapting to work environment, and presenting themselves and their personal skills.

The remaining 20 skills obtained average scores, including influence and persuasion, continuous learning, effective communication, and creative and innovative thinking.

Second, the results concluded that the planned training programs, scientific conferences, panel discussions, self-learning and peer learning are among the most appropriate means for developing soft skills for academic leaders.

And last was the study presented a vision for developing soft skills based on the philosophy that developing such skills equates to providing continuous learning experience through a framework supported by sound scientific methodologies that are planned in its context and application.