SOCRATIC SEMINAR AS A TOOL FOR ENGAGING PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATION OF AGRICULTURAL STUDENTS

Abstract

Effective professional communication is essential for success in the agricultural sector, yet it remains a challenging skill to develop in traditional educational settings. This study explores the use of the Socratic Seminar as an interactive teaching method to enhance communication competencies among agricultural students. Conducted at the Karakalpakstan Institute of Agriculture and Agrotechnology, the research employed a mixed-methods approach including surveys, interviews, and classroom observations. Findings revealed significant improvements in students’ clarity of expression, critical thinking, and engagement in professional dialogue. Students reported increased confidence in discussing complex agricultural issues such as sustainability and agribusiness. The results support the integration of inquiry-based learning strategies into agricultural education to bridge the gap between technical knowledge and communication skills. By demonstrating the effectiveness of the Socratic Seminar, this study highlights the potential for interactive pedagogies to prepare students for the communicative demands of a dynamic, evolving agricultural industry.