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Model UN Explained: How Model UN Develops Hard Skills and Soft Skills [Parent’s Article]

Written by Frank Pobutkiewicz

I'm the founder/Managing Director of the All-American Model UN Programs! If you have any questions, please email [email protected]. Happy MUNing!

February 7, 2023

Model UN Explained: How Model UN Develops Hard Skills and Soft Skills [Parent’s Article]

Model United Nations provides students with an opportunity to develop a range of hard and soft skills that will serve them well both in their academic careers and in their future professional lives.

One of the most important hard skills developed is research and analysis. In preparation for a conference, students must become experts on the positions and policies of the country they are representing. They must also become knowledgeable about the specific issues that will be discussed at the conference. This requires students to gather information from a variety of sources and to critically analyze that information to determine its relevance and credibility.

Another hard skill developed through Model UN is public speaking. As delegates, students must deliver speeches in front of large audiences, respond to questions from other delegates, and participate in negotiations and debates. This requires students to develop their communication skills, including their ability to articulate their ideas clearly and persuasively. Additionally, students must learn to think on their feet, as they will often be called upon to respond to unexpected questions or objections.

In addition to the hard skills developed through the activity, students also develop a range of soft skills that are critical for success in all aspects of life. For example, Model UN helps students to develop their interpersonal skills, including their ability to work effectively with others. As delegates, they must collaborate with other students from around the world to develop solutions to complex global problems. This requires students to build relationships with people from different backgrounds, to listen to the opinions of others, and to negotiate and compromise to achieve their goals.

Model United Nations also helps students to develop their leadership skills. As delegates, they must take charge of their own learning, manage their time effectively, and lead their delegations to success. This requires students to develop their time management skills, to be proactive, and to take responsibility for their own success.

Another important soft skill developed through Model UN is cultural awareness and sensitivity. As delegates, students must become knowledgeable about the cultures and perspectives of other countries and must learn to appreciate the value of cultural diversity. This helps students to develop a greater understanding of the world and to become more culturally sensitive and aware.

Finally, MUN helps students to develop their sense of global responsibility. By participating in MUN, students become more aware of the challenges facing different countries and the role that the United Nations plays in addressing those challenges. This leads to a greater appreciation of their role in the world and a desire to make a positive impact on society.

Participating in Model United Nations provides students with a unique opportunity to develop a range of hard and soft skills that will serve them well in their academic and professional lives. Through Model UN, students develop their research and analytical skills, their public speaking skills, their interpersonal skills, their leadership skills, their cultural awareness and sensitivity, and their sense of global responsibility. By participating in MUN, students will gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed in all aspects of life.

Parents and teachers should therefore encourage students to participate in MUN, as it provides a valuable opportunity for learning and growth that will serve students well for the rest of their lives. Whether students are interested in pursuing careers in diplomacy, politics, or any other field, the skills and experiences gained through Model United Nations will be invaluable.

This article was written with assistance by Chat GPT.

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