INCORPORATING SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING IN SCHOOLS AND BEYOND: PAST, PRESENT AND THE ROAD AHEAD!

Abstract

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is an educational paradigm aimed at equipping students with the emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills essential for personal and societal development. This chapter titled “Incorporating Social and Emotional Learning in Schools and Beyond: Past, Present and the Road Ahead” functions as a fundamental element in educational and social contexts, providing individuals with the capacity to manage life's intricacies with empathy, resilience, and self-awareness. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is based on five interconnected pillars: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making (Ee and Ong, 2013). This chapter aims to show that these elements establish a comprehensive foundation, empowering individuals to excel academically, cultivate significant relationships, and effectively impact society. Research highlights the effectiveness of SEL in enhancing academic achievement, promotes mental health, and cultivates engaged citizenry (Denham and Brown, 2010). Participants in SEL programs frequently achieve academic success, exhibit improved emotional resilience, and cultivate a strong sense of community. This chapter aims to explore effective approaches for integrating social and emotional learning and to analyze the problems faced in diverse educational environments. The chapter analyzes the evolving dynamics of social and emotional learning (SEL) through the incorporation of technology and digital technologies, which provide novel approaches for education and emotional development (Vera, 2022). In conclusion, we will examine the necessity of incorporating SEL into educational institutions to cultivate persons who are not only academically competent but also emotionally and socially equipped to enact constructive change. This chapter aims to furnish educators with in-depth insights and practical methods highlighting the need of integrating SEL within our dynamic environment.