Yoder - Instructor Perceptions of Extracurricular and Co-Curricular Activities on Developing 21st Century Soft Skills in Students.pdf

Yoder, Brad

Yoder - Instructor Perceptions of Extracurricular and Co-Curricular Activities on Developing 21st Century Soft Skills in Students.pdf

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Extracurricular and co-curricular activities have long been recognized as valuable areas of learning beyond the traditional classroom setting for high school students. Traditional areas of benefit such as academic achievement, attendance, and character development have been well-researched. However, the soft skills needed by students for success in the 21st century workforce are becoming increasingly coveted by employers and colleges alike. Through a state-wide survey, this study examined the perception of Missouri coaches and directors of both extracurricular and co-curricular activities on the intentional instruction of soft skills to high school students during activities. Specifically, this study analyzed the instruction of the 4Cs – communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity – as defined by The Partnership for 21st Century Learning (Battelle for Kids) during co-curricular activities of instrumental music, vocal music, and speech and drama, and extracurricular activities of baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball, and volleyball. Responses from coaches and directors indicated greater intention from co-curricular directors in the instruction of each of the soft skills. Furthermore, experienced coaches and directors and head coaches and directors consistently perceived to intentionally instruct soft skills more than new and assistant coaches and directors. Results of this study add to existing research showing the benefits of extracurricular and co-curricular activities in high schools.

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