Soft Skills Simulation and Assessment: Qualimetric Approach for Smart University

Abstract

The article represents the application of the qualimetric approach to the diagnostics of the soft skills level which is considered to be necessary for both the university graduates and the regional development according to the “society-smart university-enterprise” triad. Qualimetric approach is represented by Taguchi methods implementing signal-to-noise ratio for assessment noise factors that reduce the quality level of the research object. For the practical application of Taguchi’s ideas, the methods of mathematical statistics and probability theory are used. The expert methods are also used to monitor and assess the level of the graduates’ soft skills. The expertise was proposed and tested on the base of some departments in Togliatti State University. The key concepts of ABC-analysis were used and revealed. The assessment of the targeted soft skills for technical faculties was conducted. The additional models suggested by the authors determine such characteristics as “the coefficient of unrealized learning opportunities” and “the cost of achieving a given level of quality of education.” The suggested simulations allow supervisors at smart university to clearly indicate the required didactic units for the educational purposes. The considered models and the achieved results allow authors to determine the focus of management and educational influence on the competences and soft skills training that level turned out to be insufficient. The educational process in a smart university can be adjusted and improved due to the above-mentioned methods.