SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING IN EDUCATION

CATHY RONQUILLO REYES

Integrating social-emotional skills, such as self-awareness, empathy, resilience, and responsible decision-making, into the curriculum and school culture. SEL programs promote positive behavior, mental health, well-being, and academic success among students. Social-emotional learning (SEL) in education refers to the process of acquiring and applying skills, attitudes, and knowledge related to recognizing and managing emotions, developing empathy and healthy relationships, making responsible decisions, and fostering overall well-being.

Core competencies of social-emotional learning typically focus on developing five core competencies which include self-awareness which is defined as recognizing and understanding one's own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, values, and goals, self-management defined as the ability of the child in regulating emotions, controlling impulses, setting goals, managing stress, and maintaining a positive mindset, social awareness which is described as understanding and empathizing with others' emotions, perspectives, cultures, and experiences, relationship skills which described as building and maintaining healthy relationships, communicating effectively, cooperating, resolving conflicts, and working collaboratively, and responsible decision making which entails the ability of the learner in making ethical, constructive, and responsible choices based on consideration of consequences, empathy, and social norms.

Aside from that, SEL initiatives contribute to creating a positive and inclusive school climate characterized by mutual respect, empathy, cooperation, and a sense of belonging for all students and staff. A supportive school environment enhances student motivation, engagement, and overall well-being. Research indicates that students who participate in SEL programs demonstrate improved academic outcomes, including higher grades, better attendance, increased motivation, and enhanced problem-solving skills. SEL skills also correlate with reduced behavioral issues and disciplinary incidents. SEL equips students with essential life skills that are valuable beyond the classroom, including emotional intelligence, empathy, communication, conflict resolution, decision-making, and responsible citizenship. These skills contribute to students' success in college, career, relationships, and overall well-being throughout their lives.

-oOoThe author is Teacher III-Sta. Cruz Elementary School-Division of Pampanga