INTEGRATING SOFT SKILLS INTO ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING: EMPOWERING LEARNERS FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

This article explores the importance and practical methods of integrating soft skills—such as communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and adaptability—into English language teaching (ELT). It argues that modern language instruction must extend beyond linguistic competence to include the interpersonal and professional capabilities necessary for 21st-century learners. The article outlines effective classroom strategies for embedding soft skills, presents a distribution chart of commonly emphasized competencies, and discusses challenges such as assessment and teacher training. It concludes with recommendations for curriculum reform and professional development to support holistic education. This article is relevant for language educators, curriculum designers, and policymakers seeking to align ELT with global employability and personal development goals.本文探讨了将沟通、协作、批判性思维与适应性等软技能（soft skills）融入英语语言教学（English Language Teaching，ELT）的重要性与实操路径。本文主张，现代语言教学不应仅局限于语言能力培养，还需涵盖21世纪学习者所需的人际与职业能力。文中详述了嵌入软技能的高效课堂教学策略，展示了重点强调的能力维度分布图表，并探讨了评估体系与教师培训等核心挑战。文末围绕支撑全人教育的课程改革与专业发展提出了针对性建议。本文适用于致力于将ELT与全球就业竞争力及个人发展目标相契合的语言教育工作者、课程设计者与政策制定者。