Comparison of pre-service teachers' social skill levels

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare the social skill levels of university students from three different teaching departments. Study sample consisted of 100 students (mean age = 21.55 ± 0.165) of physical education and sports teaching (PEST) department, 100 students (mean age = 20.93 ± 0.157) of classroom teaching (CT) department and 100 students (mean age = 21.43 ± 0.189) of music teaching (MT) department. Data were collected using a social skills inventory and a socio-demographic information form. Descriptive statistics, one-way variance analysis, LSD multiple comparison test and independent sample t test were used to analyze the data using the SPSS. The mean scores of PEST, CT and MT students on the Social Skills Inventory were 280.81 (±4.56), 281.34 (±5.45) and 278.94 (±5.32), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in social skills scores between PEST, CT and MT students while female participants’ social skills scores were significantly higher than those of male participants. Social skills scores did not differ significantly by parents' education level while they differed significantly by place of residence (village, district or city). Participants have an average level of social skills with no departmental difference. Female pre-service teachers have a higher level of social skills than male pre-service teachers.