Soft skills in engineering education. Practical approach of National Research University “Moscow Power Engineering Institute”

Abstract

Soft skills have become an essential attribute for a successful career in engineering in recent decades. The role of soft skills in engineering qualifications increases each year. It is observed that this European trend has been adopted by other countries and at present is inherent throughout the world. For an engineer today it is extremely important to focus not only on technical or technological issues while studying but to acquire a wider range of abilities and skills that are aimed at expanding professional and career opportunities. A new course has been introduced into the Master's curriculum in National Research University “Moscow Power Engineering Institute” in 2020/2021 academic year to enhance soft-skills component in engineering training. Organizational Management is an interdisciplinary area of knowledge which is closely related to such fields as psychology, social sciences, management, economics, philosophy and history. As a part of curriculum this course is aimed at supplementing engineering qualifications with a whole range of skills and abilities of a social nature. Introduction of this course into the curriculum of the last year of the Master's program of engineer training permits to supplement technical and technological qualifications with a number of soft skills necessary not only for future professional activities, but also for the performance of a Master's thesis.