Abstract

In this article we present the study on the professional competencies most conducive to teaching socio-educational techniques to students returning to school after having dropped out. The research aims to identify the competencies to propose the design of a higher education program in social education for Puerto Rico. We surveyed employers of alternative schools to identify the skills that teachers must have to work with the student cohort, the selection criteria at the time of recruitment of teachers, and their perception of demand for the social education professional in Puerto Rico. Among the findings, we highlight that employers favor the professional competencies that lend respect and solidarity with the students as well as the motivation and attitude of candidates as key criteria in deciding the recruitment and hiring of teachers.