DIGITAL LIBRARY
TRANSVERSAL SKILLS ASSESSMENT IN THE MATHEMATICS DEGREE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ALMERIA
University of Almeria (SPAIN)
About this paper:
Appears in: ICERI2023 Proceedings
Publication year: 2023
Pages: 7628-7637
ISBN: 978-84-09-55942-8
ISSN: 2340-1095
doi: 10.21125/iceri.2023.1910
Conference name: 16th annual International Conference of Education, Research and Innovation
Dates: 13-15 November, 2023
Location: Seville, Spain
Abstract:
Mathematics, as a university degree, holds immense importance and offers a multitude of benefits. It provides students with a solid foundation in logical reasoning and analytical thinking, skills that are highly sought after in various industries. The study of mathematics trains individuals to approach complex problems with precision, clarity, and systematic thought processes. These skills not only enable graduates to excel in fields directly related to mathematics, such as engineering, finance, and computer science, but also equip them with a valuable toolkit applicable to a wide range of disciplines. A mathematics degree cultivates problem-solving abilities, encouraging individuals to break down intricate challenges into manageable components and develop innovative solutions. It trains students to approach problems objectively, considering multiple perspectives and evaluating the validity of various arguments. This critical thinking ability allows mathematicians to contribute to research, academia, and even policy-making, as they can analyze complex issues and provide logical insights. In addition to its practical applications, a mathematics degree also promotes abstract thinking and intellectual curiosity. It exposes students to beautiful and elegant mathematical concepts that have a profound impact on our understanding of the world. Moreover, the study of mathematics fosters a lifelong love of learning and an appreciation for the beauty of logic and reasoning. Whether pursuing a career in academia, research, finance, or technology, a mathematics degree provides a solid foundation for success. Generic skills play a pivotal role in shaping professionals, highlighting the significance of universities in fostering their development. These skills, which transcend specific disciplines, equip individuals with the versatility and adaptability required to thrive in today's dynamic and interconnected world. Proficient communication skills enable effective collaboration and enable professionals to convey complex ideas with clarity. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities foster innovative solutions and drive continuous improvement. Emotional intelligence promotes empathy, teamwork, and effective leadership, fostering harmonious relationships and successful outcomes. Additionally, digital literacy and technological proficiency equip professionals with the necessary tools to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape. Ultimately, universities that prioritize the cultivation of cross-functional skills empower graduates to excel in their careers, embrace challenges, and contribute meaningfully to society. In this research, the teaching guides of the forty-eight subjects of the Mathematics degree have been examined and the 10 generic competences of the University of Almeria have been analyzed: UAL1 to UAL10. UAL1- Basic knowledge of the profession, UAL2- Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), UAL3- Ability to solve problems successfully, UAL4- Oral and written expression with clarity in Spanish, UAL5- Development of critical and self-critical sense, UAL6- Ability to work in groups, UAL7- Learning a foreign language, UAL8- Commitment to business ethics, UAL9- Ability to design, manage and undertake a task by oneself, and UAL10- Corporate social responsibility. The objective of this work is to establish the possible weaknesses in the existing competencies.
Keywords:
Skills, Mathematics, University Degree, Curriculum.