Towards a New Conception of Teacher Excellence: Students’ Perceptions of Soft Skills in Effective Teaching

Abstract

This study investigates teacher soft skills and the interpersonal qualities that define teaching excellence. While an extensive body of research emphasizes knowledge, subject expertise and instructional methods, the present study aims to delve deeper into the interpersonal qualities and behaviours that students identify as qualifiers of excellent teachers. To attain this objective, the study uses qualitative survey questionnaires directed to 425 high school students across various disciplines in the orient region, in Morocco. Thematic analysis reveals key attributes such as communication, empathy, caring and relationship building along with pedagogical competence as central to the students’ conceptualisation of teacher excellence.  It is concluded that soft skills play a pivotal role in enhancing student engagement, fostering a positive learning environment and facilitating classroom interaction.