Social-emotional learning can benefit your students in various ways. Implement social and emotional learning techniques to help them develop social and emotional skills.
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Educators, teachers, and assistants have a rewarding but also difficult job. They should incorporate various teaching techniques that will keep learners engaged but also adjust their teaching based on individual needs.
One type of learning that can improve the behavior of students and reduce aggression and bullying is social and emotional learning (SEL).
Social and emotional learning techniques can help strengthen the mental and emotional health of learners, especially young ones, as they continue growing and learning.
In this article, we’ll discuss the key competencies of social-emotional learning and share numerous social and emotional learning techniques. Let’s get started!
Social-emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which a person gains and uses knowledge and skills for success in education and life, in general. The process can help people master and practice interpersonal skills, empathy, and emotional regulation.
When applying social and emotional learning techniques in a classroom or work setting, learners can become more self-aware and aware of their surroundings, make better life decisions, develop positive values and attitudes, and improve their social skills.
Image credit: casel.org
According to the Collaborative for academic, social, and emotional learning (CASEL), the fundamentals of SEL include:
Self-awareness, as you can already assume, is all about understanding your own emotions, thoughts, and values and how they impact your actions. This skill helps students recognize both strengths and areas they can work on, boosting confidence and purpose.
Self-awareness encompasses:
Self-management means learning how to control your emotions and behaviors in various situations. It’s also about setting goals and sticking with them, even when things get tough.
Self-management includes:
Social awareness involves understanding others’ viewpoints and showing empathy, especially with people from different backgrounds. It’s about seeing the world through other people’s eyes and showing compassion.
Social awareness means:
Building strong, positive relationships is essential. This skill focuses on clear communication, active listening, teamwork, and problem-solving. It’s about working well with others and knowing when to give or ask for help.
Relationship skills include:
Good decision-making involves making thoughtful choices, considering not just personal benefits but also how they affect others. It’s about thinking through the outcomes of your actions and learning from your experiences.
Responsible decision-making suggests:
Practicing social-emotional learning activities helps students grow, build good relationships, and make smart choices. A safe, supportive space helps them succeed in school, and later, in life, and feel more connected.
Educators can create a more positive environment for their learners by applying the following social and emotional learning strategies. They keep students engaged and help them develop important skills.
Social-emotional learning tools help create a supportive environment for students. Coursebox AI stands out as a great tool for teachers because it tracks the emotional and social growth of students while offering personalized learning experiences.
With Coursebox AI, teachers stay connected to each student’s needs and can adjust lessons to support them better, making SEL part of everyday learning. You can even create and sell online courses, among many other things.
Checking in with students at the start of each day lets them share what’s on their minds. They feel seen, and you get a sense of how everyone’s doing.
One of the most common SEL strategies examples is a “Mood Meter” where students can place a sticker on how they feel. It’s a low-pressure and easy method that gives you a snapshot of the room’s vibe. Or you can simply ask, “How’s everyone feeling today?”
Teaching kids to see challenges as growth opportunities helps them build resilience. If they think they can improve, they’ll try harder.
Try prompts like, “What was hard for you, but you kept going?” You can also share a story where you had to keep going, even when it was tough. It helps them relate.
Highlighting positive behavior shows students what’s valued in the classroom. They’ll see kindness and respect get noticed, and they’re more likely to repeat it.
Call out specific actions like, “I loved how Mason helped his classmate clean up!” You can also create a “Good Deeds Wall” where they can post positive things they see each other do.
Honoring different backgrounds helps students feel proud of themselves. They learn to respect each other’s unique qualities and cultures. Bring in books, photos, and activities that celebrate different backgrounds.
Additionally, hold a “Cultural Show-and-Tell” where students share a favorite food, item, or story from their culture.
Setting goals gives students a sense of purpose and something to work toward. When they see progress, they feel proud.
Start with a simple weekly goal that they can track, like “I’ll read 10 pages a day.” You can even enhance their learning experience using eLearning apps.
Group work helps kids learn how to communicate and cooperate. They get to practice listening, problem-solving, and being flexible.
Set roles within groups—everyone has something to contribute, and it avoids the “one person does it all” issue.
A little gratitude helps students focus on what’s good around them. It lifts their spirits and builds a positive outlook. Make it a Friday ritual—ask them to share something they’re thankful for that week.
Tip: Set up a “Gratitude Jar” where they drop in notes about things they appreciate. Review the notes together for a mood boost.
Mindfulness teaches students to slow down and manage stress. A few quiet moments can help them refocus and calm down.
Lead a quick breathing exercise or have a minute of quiet “listening time” to transition back from recess.
Art gives students a way to express feelings they might not be able to put into words. It’s calming and often helps them open up. Give students different ways to explore their emotions—drawing, painting, or even digital art.
Active listening helps kids build empathy and respect. When they listen well, they understand each other better. Model listening by nodding, summarizing what they said, and asking questions.
Reflecting on their choices and emotions builds self-awareness. It’s how they start to understand themselves better. Ask questions like, “What went well today?” or “What’s something you’d change next time?”
Discussions teach students to respect different viewpoints and think deeper. It’s a way for them to learn from each other.
Set norms for listening without interrupting and respecting everyone’s opinions. Also, break them into small groups after a lesson and give them a big question to discuss.
Visualizing concepts, especially emotions, makes it easier for students to understand complex ideas. Incorporate charts, drawings, or even videos to explain feelings or new topics using AI tools for teachers.
When students see how lessons apply to life, they’re more engaged. It shows them that what they’re learning is valuable.
Tip: If you’re teaching teamwork, ask about a time they needed teamwork at home or in sports. It makes learning real.
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In conclusion, you can use these SEL strategies for high school or employee training. Start with one or combine a few social-emotional learning strategies and see how your learners react.
Tip: Make teaching easier for you and assess their knowledge faster with automated grading systems. Use the time you save to develop better SEL strategies.
All in all, social-emotional learning strategies work! However, we suggest implementing social and emotional learning strategies in the classroom slowly.
Start with simple check-ins to see how everyone is feeling, encourage teamwork to help them grow together, and always praise when someone is being kind and considerate.
Additionally, let your students explore their emotions through words or art, teach them how to take deep breaths when dealing with something stressful, and create a safe and calm space where they can recharge when needed.
Lastly, don’t forget to explore AI-powered course creators and free LMS platforms, like Coursebox AI. They can help implement SEL strategies in the classroom much easier. Explore our pricing plans and start free today!
