The easiest way to remember the steps for soft skills development, or Umbrella Competencies in the classroom, is to compare the skills process with learning to ride a bicycle:
1. From dependent on instructor to independent, as a self-directed learner and navigator
2. From navigating within the class, local to world wide
3. From a limited vocabulary to describe process and events (seat, brakes, etc.) to a more extensive and precise vocabulary (saddle, derailleur, calipers, crank, etc.)
4. From a solo experience through group experiences to high performance team experiences for those who demonstrate excellence.
Do not underestimate the value of specialized vocabulary, whether it be bicycling, football, or team building. The vocabulary is a necessary tool for thinking, communicating, planning, and getting the job done efficiently and effectively.
Imagine trying to describe or understand a football play or cooking a gourmet sauce without a specialized vocabulary. The same would be true for describing team building activities and processes.