An Analytical Study of Non-Technical Skills for Quality of Life Development

Abstract

          This research aimed to (1) examine the concepts and components of Non-Technical Skills (NTS), (2) analyze the relationship between NTS and quality of life development, and (3) synthesize a conceptual framework of NTS for quality of life development. The researcher sought to broaden the meaning of NTS beyond the framework traditionally applied in high-risk professions toward a new definition as “life skills, thinking, and relationships,” so that it could serve as knowledge applicable to quality of life enhancement on a wider scale. The research methodology employed documentary research and philosophical research, utilizing hermeneutic analysis, comparative analysis, and reflexive thinking. The data were drawn from both international and Thai studies related to NTS in medicine, nursing, aviation, education, and management. The findings revealed that (1) the core components of NTS that repeatedly emerged included situation awareness, decision making, communication, teamwork, leadership, and task management; (2) NTS were directly related to all dimensions of quality of life—physical, psychological, social, and environmental—by reducing stress, fostering life balance, and enhancing social trust; and (3) a new conceptual framework, named the DINH Model, was synthesized, consisting of D = Decision & Discipline (decision making and self-discipline), I = Interpersonal Skills (interpersonal and relationship skills), N = Novel Thinking (creative and critical thinking), and H = Holistic Awareness (holistic awareness).