Application of Soft Systems Methodology in Empowering Graduates' Communication Skills

Abstract

This paper investigates the usage of Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) as an assessment tool for improving teaching and learning English in Malaysian higher education institutions (HEls). In this study, the Malaysian higher education stakeholders- community members, HE academics as well as the learners themselves - are "the interveners" who create the best solutions of the problematic situation of low spoken communication skills amongst the graduates. By using SSM, it is anticipated that stakeholders involved would reach a common ground in empowering the graduates' communication skills by allowing graduates to use English in a real context involving the community. It is discovered that SSM was able to examine the requirement from all parties by offering them a proper and equal stage to voice out their opinion. It is believed that SSM can help instructors and policy makers of Malaysian HEls in making a sound judgement in improving teaching of English as L2 in HEis, and help to increase graduate employability.