Impact of curricular experiences in the entrepreneurship axis on soft skills in engineering students

Abstract

This research analyzes how the incorporation of entrepreneurship-focused curricular experiences influences the development of soft skills in engineering students. Competencies such as leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving are essential in a dynamic and ever-changing professional environment.

In the Peruvian context, university students face various problems, such as a lack of access to quality job opportunities, the gap between academic training and market demands, and a scarcity of programs that promote the development of transversal skills.

The demands posed by companies are one of the significant barriers to youth employment. The market demands work experience, which many young people lack due to a lack of initial training opportunities. Additionally, soft and socio-emotional skills are required, such as confidence, creativity, and critical thinking, among others.

Faced with this problem, one of the major challenges is to develop active learning methodologies, including project-based learning, case-solving, business simulations, and community collaboration, bringing the academic space to beneficiary groups. The application of these strategies fosters decision-making, creativity, autonomy, and adaptability, preparing students to face the challenges of the labor market and contribute to sustainable development in their communities.

Through surveys and comparative analyses of engineering university students, significant improvements in various soft skills have been identified, such as self-confidence, leadership, teamwork skills, and conflict management, among those participating in entrepreneurship programs. Likewise, these students were observed to be more willing to take risks in uncertain environments, both in academic and professional aspects, and in the development of business projects. They also showed greater creativity and innovation, as well as a greater commitment to solving social problems.

This article examines how the inclusion of entrepreneurship curricular experiences impacts the development of soft skills in engineering students. These competencies, such as leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, are essential in a competitive and constantly changing professional environment.

The study is based on active learning methodologies, such as project-based learning, case studies, business simulations, and collaborative community activities. The application of these strategies fosters decision-making, creativity, autonomy, and adaptability, preparing students for a sustainable future and professional competitiveness.

Through surveys and comparative analyses of university students, significant improvements were identified in self-confidence, leadership, teamwork, and conflict management among students participating in entrepreneurship programs. Furthermore, these students were found to demonstrate a greater willingness to take on challenges in the face of market uncertainty, and to negotiate and manage their time effectively.

The study concludes that entrepreneurship education not only strengthens students' innovative mindsets but also contributes to their overall development. Exposure to uncertain situations and the need to collaborate as a team foster the development of communication and problem-solving skills, essential for both career success and the creation of new opportunities.