Downloads: 1
Analysis Study Research Paper | Educational Psychology | Volume 15 Issue 3, March 2026 | Pages: 1044 - 1048 | India
Decision-Making and Problem-Solving as Core Life Skills: A Cross-Sectional Study among Students with and without Disabilities at the Higher Education Level
Abstract: The present study aimed to examine decision-making and problem-solving skills as core life skills among higher education students with and without disabilities in West Bengal. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, and a total of 207 students (100 with disabilities and 107 without disabilities) were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using selected items from the Life Skills Scale developed by M. N. Vranda (2009). The findings revealed that higher education students possess a high level of decision-making and problem-solving skills. A significant positive correlation (r = 0.649, p < 0.01) was found between decision-making and problem-solving skills. No significant difference was observed in decision-making skills between students with and without disabilities; however, a significant difference was found in problem-solving skills, with students with disabilities scoring higher. Gender differences were significant in decision-making but not in problem-solving skills, while no significant differences were found based on the number of siblings. Significant differences were observed based on types of disability in both skills. The study highlights the importance of inclusive educational practices and support systems in enhancing essential life skills among students. The findings may help educators and policymakers design effective strategies to promote cognitive skill development among diverse learners in higher education.
Keywords: Decision-Making Skills, Problem-Solving Skills, Life Skills, Higher Education, Students with Disabilities
How to Cite?: Dr. Abhijit Biswas, Ranjit Barman, "Decision-Making and Problem-Solving as Core Life Skills: A Cross-Sectional Study among Students with and without Disabilities at the Higher Education Level", Volume 15 Issue 3, March 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1044-1048, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26317143916, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26317143916