Comunicación asertiva en estudiantes universitarios: caso facultad de ciencias sociales de la utmach

Abstract

Assertive communication is a vital skill in both academic and professional environments, allowing students to share their ideas and stand up for their views while respecting others. This study examines the impact of assertive communication among eighth-semester students and future professionals from the Faculty of Social Sciences at the Universidad Técnica de Machala. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining surveys, the Multidimensional Assertiveness Scale (EMA) by Florez Galaz and Diaz-Loving (2004), and semi-structured interviews with experts in communication and psychology. Findings show that while most students understand the value of assertive communication, many find it challenging to practice. Three main aspects were identified: assertiveness, non-assertiveness, and indirect assertiveness; with the latter being more common in certain academic areas. Moreover, assertive communication was found to have a significant effect on both academic and professional success, influencing teamwork, conflict resolution, and leadership. Despite this, current university programs do not provide enough opportunities for developing this skill. To address this gap, it is recommended to integrate assertive communication modules to the curriculum, using interactive methods like debates and role-playing, training teachers in communication strategies, and open up academic spaces for reflection and feedback. These steps would help students to build stronger assertive communication skills and be better prepared for their professional challenges.