In contemporary society, where psychological, social, and emotional challenges are increasingly prevalent, education transcends the mere acquisition of academic knowledge. Particularly for the younger generation, mastering emotional regulation, honing interpersonal communication skills, and cultivating meaningful relationships are paramount. Consequently, Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) has emerged as a cornerstone of modern educational paradigms, yielding enduring benefits for students both academically and in their future endeavors.
What is Social-Emotional Learning?
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), rather than a transient educational trend, represents an indispensable component of holistic human development. Defined by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), a preeminent non-profit organization in the United States with over two decades of expertise in SEL research and advocacy, SEL is conceptualized as ‘a process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.”
Today, SEL is firmly embedded in the curricula of numerous progressive nations globally. In the United States, for instance, many educational institutions have effectively integrated SEL into core subjects such as history, mathematics, and literacy. Similarly, in Vietnam, SEL is gaining traction, with educators and institutions increasingly adopting and implementing SEL strategies, particularly within English language learning.
05 Social Emotional Learning Core Competencies
According to the authoritative research conducted by CASEL, the widely adopted SEL framework encompasses five core socio-emotional competencies:
- Self-awareness: This competency involves the capacity to recognize and comprehend one’s own emotions and thoughts, thereby enabling appropriate behavioral modulation. It fosters emotional intelligence, cultivates self-confidence, and facilitates mastery over personal sentiments, alongside the discernment of individual strengths and weaknesses.
- Social awareness: This competency empowers individuals to empathize with and understand others, accurately assess diverse emotional states and perspectives, and adapt to varying social environments. It serves as a crucial foundation for the development of healthy interpersonal relationships.
- Self-management: This competency pertains to the ability to regulate emotions, behaviors, and stress, while simultaneously cultivating motivation to achieve goals. It equips individuals with the skills to self-motivate, develop self-discipline, and formulate goal-oriented plans.
- Relationship skills: This competency enables individuals to establish and maintain healthy social connections, communicate effectively, engage in collaborative endeavors, and resolve conflicts constructively. It also enhances leadership potential and fosters active participation in community-based initiatives.
- Responsible decision making: This competency facilitates the ability to make ethical choices, comprehend the consequences of actions, and assume responsibility for personal decisions. It is instrumental in the development of critical thinking and a sense of accountability.
Each of these competencies not only contributes to individual skill enhancement but also plays a pivotal role in fostering a cohesive and civilized community.
The Benefits of Social-Emotional Learning for Children
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is not merely an abstract concept; it is a key that unlocks success for children in both academics and life. Research indicates that children who receive SEL education achieve 11% higher academic scores, experience a 51% reduction in bullying incidents, and a 73% decrease in rule violations. This not only demonstrates better emotional and behavioral control but also provides a solid foundation for long-term success, evidenced by higher employment rates and educational attainment, as shown in studies by the World Economic Forum.
Developing Social Skills
SEL helps children develop crucial skills for effective interaction in social environments. Skills such as communication, listening, sharing, cooperation, and teamwork not only boost children’s confidence in social situations but also build positive relationships with peers, teachers, and others. When children master these skills, they are ready to enter the wider world, communicate confidently, and build a strong social network from an early age.
Managing Emotions
One of the greatest benefits of SEL is its ability to help children recognize and regulate their emotions. When children understand their emotions and how they impact behavior, they can manage emotions mindfully and positively. Knowing how to recognize and regulate emotions in challenging situations helps children not only build confidence but also control life situations better, becoming stronger and calmer when facing challenges.
Boosting Confidence
When children are equipped with the ability to recognize and manage emotions, they can easily face new and difficult situations without feeling anxious or afraid. Children who understand their emotions are more confident when facing academic challenges, games, or interactions with others. This confidence encourages children to explore new opportunities and be ready to learn in all situations, creating a solid foundation for future growth and success.
Building Positive Relationships
SEL helps children deeply understand the relationship between emotions and how to communicate with others. Children learn to listen, empathize, and respect others in all relationships. These skills not only help them build and maintain long-lasting friendships but also strengthen bonds with family, friends, and the community. When children know how to harmonize emotions and actions with others, they can easily create a positive, healthy, and sustainable social network.
The Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Program at SNA Marianapolis
At SNA Marianapolis International School, we cultivate a world-class, contemporary educational environment where intellectual and emotional development are nurtured in tandem. We recognize that for holistic child development, both robust academic knowledge and essential socio-emotional skills are indispensable. Consequently, the core competencies within our SEL curriculum form a solid foundation for students to build character, overcome challenges, and achieve success in life.
Specifically, to hone planning skills, adhere to objectives, and quantify the practical outcomes of the SEL program, we instruct students in the application of the S.M.A.R.T. model (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound). Instead of nebulous goals, students are encouraged to formulate clear, quantifiable objectives, thereby enhancing their focus and determination in their pursuit of knowledge and emotional skill development.
SNA Marianapolis is committed to accompanying students on their journey of self-discovery, empowering them to become outstanding global citizens who are not only intellectually adept and resilient but also possess compassionate and responsible hearts.
SNA Marianapolis International School
- Location: 397, 30/4 Street, Trung Dung Ward, Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai Province
- Website: https://snamarianapolis.edu.vn/
- Hotline: 0932 083 886
- Email: info@snamarianapolis.edu.vn
