Measuring the importance of non-technical skills for integration into metalwork technology curriculum using structural equation modelling

Abstract

This study aims to measure the significance of non-technical skills for integrating into metalwork technology curriculum of technical colleges in Nigeria. The data collected through questionnaire survey consisted of 283 responses. The findings revealed that the mean values for all identified components of non-technical skills indicated their importance and suitability for integration into the curriculum. The study developed models using structural equation modelling (SEM) technique. The results from SEM indicated that the correlation matrix, factor loadings, composite reliability, and average variance extracted for the measurement and structural models were all confirmed fit and suitable. The study also revealed that the relationship among the components that made up of the structural model were statistically significant. Communication skills was ranked the highest among the eight components that were considered important while problem-solving skills were ranked the lowest. In order to achieve the integration, suggestions are made relating to policy structure for the development of non-technical skills in Nigeria technical colleges.