“There is no end to education. It is not that you read a book, pass an examination, and finish with education. The whole of life, from the moment you are born to the moment you die, is a process of learning.” - Jiddu Krishnamurthi (Indian Philosopher and Orator)
Social-emotional learning also called ‘SEL’ expands the idea of learning beyond academics. SEL is a system that provides students with tools and techniques for dealing with day-to-day problems which is lacking in the traditional education system. That is why mere academic growth alone is insufficient for a student’s overall growth.
What is Social-Emotional Learning?
Learning is never linear, which means it is a constant process of shaping the minds of brilliant future. Students learn mostly from the environment they are exposed to as well as from their interactions with people. So educational institutions must maintain a positive environment where these students can grow and flourish into wonderful human beings.
Social and emotional learning (SEL) helps recognise the importance of emotional intelligence, self-management, self-awareness, relationship skills, etc. It equips the students with the ability to make responsible decision-making, teamwork, communicate effectively, and also manage their emotions well. Recently we have also had a huge focus on mental health and SEL plays an important role in navigating the overall health of the students as well. These skills are not just important in academic life but also in succeeding and living a quality life.
Importance of Social-Emotional Learning
The benefits of SEL go far beyond the walls of the academics. SEL can help students live a fulfilling life which is not just restricted to getting good grades but also developing deep and healthy relationships, dealing with emotions in calmer and more peaceful ways, etc. Let us talk about some of the benefits of the SEL in a little more detail.
Academic Success:
Social-emotional learning contrary to what many people think, is a huge part of academic success. Social-emotional is directly proportional to academic performance. Students who are more self-aware, more self-managed, more socially aware, more confident in their relationships, and more capable of making responsible decisions are more likely to participate and succeed in learning, cope with stress, and face challenges head-on. A student who can manage emotions well is bound to manage academic stress well and pass through it with flying colours.
Healthy Relationships:
One of the most important skills in today’s connected world is building and sustaining positive relationships. SEL helps students develop empathy, communication skills, and problem-solving skills, allowing them to navigate a wide range of social situations with assurance and respect.
Emotional Resilience:
Emotional resilience is the secret to weathering life’s storms. By empowering students to identify and manage their feelings, SEL provides them with the tools they need to overcome adversity, failure, and stress.
Positive Behavior:
SEL encourages positive social behaviour and reduces bullying and aggressive behaviour. When students feel connected and supported in their school environment, they’re more likely to show kindness, empathy, and collaboration.
Preparation for Life:
Beyond the classroom, success on the job depends on more than intelligence. SEL develops skills and attitudes that lead to workplace success, civic involvement, and well-being.
How to inculcate Social-Emtional Learning in the curriculum?
It is crucial to implement SEL at the root level as it will help the students in their overall growth. For this SEL needs to be a part of the whole school environment. Here are some of the ways in which it can integrated:
- SEL needs to be a crucial part of the school curriculum, not just through express instructions and regulations but also through inter-disciplinary relations. It must be inculcated in every curriculum subject, which will, in return, give students a deep understanding of it.
- Teachers and staff must walk the talk by setting an example. They must be trained to integrate SEL into their daily conversations with the students. Educators must be equipped via workshops, training programmes, and retreats to help them foster SEL skills within their teachings.
- Conflict resolution is a huge part of SEL training. They need to know how to deal with real-life conflicts and issues and this can be achieved through including problem-solving techniques.
- A positive environment is the soil where a student can grow beautifully. It becomes a safe space for students as it welcomes and respects their uniqueness. A positive environment also makes space to foster inclusivity, diversity, empathy, and emotional security within the school premises.
- Mindfulness is another practice that helps relieve stress. It provides the right outlet for emotions for the students.
Conclusion
Social-emotional learning (SEL) is a beacon of hope for the students as it will teach them empathy, resilience and meaningful connections. By implementing SEL elements in the classrooms, we are not only preparing students for academic achievement but also preparing them to lead lives rich in emotional intelligence, social responsibility and compassion. Social-emotional learning is all about nurturing the child with the right amount of love, compassion, and understanding and in the process equipping them with the skills which will help in their holistic growth.