SEL-abrate Good Times -Turning Theory into Everyday Teaching Magic
Embedding SEL into Everyday Teaching
🎓 I'm officially a doctor (academic of course, LoL)! My dissertation has been published, and I've officially graduated after months of writing, research, and more coffee than I'd like to confess! 🎉 However, a victory lap isn't precisely the end of the road for teachers. It's been quite the journey, from preparing my students for their final exams to grading an overwhelming amount of paperwork and completing all the tasks associated with the end of the semester (hello, late-night spreadsheet marathons).
To everyone who has read my message, supported me, or even just followed along, you have contributed to the energy that carried me through. I sincerely appreciate your help, and I'm excited to see what the next phase will bring—ideally with less deadlines. Cheers to gaining knowledge, developing, and at last being able to declare, "Done!" 🙌🎓 …for now… 💀
While the "why" of social-emotional learning (SEL) is obvious, the "how" can be difficult for teachers juggling busy schedules and academic demands.
The persuasive argument for SEL made in "Brains, Hearts, and Test Scores" serves as a reminder of the vital role SEL plays in holistic student development. This article, backed by recent research, suggests practical ways to incorporate SEL into regular classroom activities.
Start Small: Morning Meetings and Check-ins
Creating a culture of emotional openness doesn’t require grand reforms. Morning meetings or daily check-ins can allow students to express themselves and foster connection with peers. Research by Jones et al. (2019) emphasizes that consistent routines like morning meetings enhance students' ability to self-regulate and improve classroom relationships.
SEL-Infused Academic Instruction
Integrating SEL into classes can bridge the gap between academic material and emotional growth.
For example, instructors can purposefully teach collaboration skills such as active listening and dispute resolution during group assignments. According to a research by Schonert-Reichl et al. (2015), SEL-infused instruction improves kids' academic performance, especially in reading and arithmetic, and their emotional intelligence.
Model SEL Skills as an Educator
Teachers are role models by exhibiting the SEL skills they want to teach. Teachers can demonstrate to pupils the importance of these abilities in real-time by engaging in mindfulness exercises, constructive stress management, and empathy. Jennings and Greenberg (2009) point out that the classroom environment and student results are significantly impacted by the well-being of teachers and their SEL modeling.
Overcoming Challenges in SEL Implementation
Time constraints and curriculum overload are common hurdles. However, embedding SEL doesn't have to detract from academics—it can enhance it. For example, SEL can be tied to reading comprehension by analyzing characters’ emotions and decision-making processes in literature. Additionally, technology can support SEL by providing tools for mindfulness or emotional check-ins.
…Final Thoughts…
As we make SEL a cornerstone of education, we must prioritize practical, manageable steps. By embedding SEL into daily routines, academic instruction, and teacher behaviors, educators can create a learning environment that nurtures both hearts and minds.
The best part, deeper connections = TRUST = deeper learning.
References
Jennings, P. A., & Greenberg, M. T. (2009). The prosocial classroom: Teacher social and emotional competence in relation to student and classroom outcomes. Review of educational research, 79(1), 491-525.
Jones, S. M., McGarrah, M. W., & Kahn, J. (2019). Social and emotional learning: A principled science of human development in context. Educational Psychologist, 54(3), 129-143.
Schonert-Reichl, K. A., Oberle, E., Lawlor, M. S., Abbott, D., Thomson, K., Oberlander, T. F., & Diamond, A. (2015). Enhancing cognitive and social–emotional development through a simple-to-administer mindfulness-based school program for elementary school children: A randomized controlled trial. Developmental psychology, 51(1), 52.