DEVELOPING SOFT SKILLS IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE EDUCATION IN THE TERTIARY SECTOR, EMPLOYERS' EXPECTATIONS, AND THE ROLE OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES IN NON-PHILOLOGICAL STUDY PROGRAMMES – THEMES OF THE SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE AT THE TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY IN ZVOLEN

Abstract

Scientific Conference on Teaching Foreign Languages with a Focus on Soft Skills Development and Communication in Academic and Professional Contexts

The scientific conference, held on October 17–18, 2024, at the Technical University in Zvolen, was focused on facilitating the development of soft skills in foreign language education within accredited university study programs. This emphasis was explored in the context of the expectations of employers and labour market demands. The event brought together over 40 active participants. Following plenary speeches and discussions, the program included three sections that, in addition to soft skills development in foreign language teaching, addressed linguistics, didactics, translation studies, and terminology, with a focus on their intersections.

The discussions, following the plenary lectures, highlighted the necessity of transitioning from a knowledge-based declarative paradigm to facilitative approaches that support soft skills development through appropriate organizational forms for interaction and personal growth. This shift emphasizes the importance of creating a learning environment where collaboration, critical thinking, and effective communication are prioritized. Participants noted that such facilitative methods not only enhance language competence but also prepare students to meet the dynamic requirements of academic and professional settings.

A round table discussion taking place on 18 October was also part of the conference, addressing the foundations, current state, and future direction of foreign language instruction in accredited university programmes within the framework of general studies. Participants, including foreign language educators from language centres and philological departments, engaged in dialogue and identified organizational challenges in teaching languages aimed at academic and professional communication, while seeking potential solutions.