A teacher survey on social and emotional learning (SEL) and teachers' well-being was carried out by the Wallace Foundation and the RAND Corporation. According to the poll, educators who scored higher on the overall well being scale were more involved in SEL activities in the classroom and at school than those who scored lower.
SEL is often seen as a tool for students, but what about the teachers? Studies suggest that teachers who practise SEL experience lower stress and greater job satisfaction. As schools embrace SEL for students, it is time to recognise its impact on educators too
The Emotional Toll of Teaching
The pressure to handle diverse student needs, complete the curricula within the given time and manage classroom dynamics along with maintaining relationships with their peers take a toll on students mental healthCommon grievances include:
a) Emotional Drain: Dealing with the emotional stress of students while managing their own personal struggles with their emotions
b) Lack of Support: Lack of adequate resources and opportunities for professional development
c) Work-Life Balance: The challenge of drawing the lines between the personal and professional life
d) Behavioral Challenges: Managing students social and emotional needs without adequate training
For example, a middle school teacher starts her day prepared for an engaging lesson. However, within the first hour, she notices a student withdrawing from class discussions, another acting out, and a third struggling with the concept she’s teaching. While managing these individual challenges, she also has to ensure the class stays on track with the syllabus. By the end of the day, she feels emotionally drained but still needs to grade assignments, respond to emails, and plan for the next day—all while trying to balance her personal life.
To support teachers, it is crucial to provide professional development in SEL, create peer support networks, and implement self-care practices that help them recharge. Schools must recognise the emotional toll of teaching and take proactive steps to ensure educators feel supported, valued, and equipped to overcome these challenges effectively.
The Connection between SEL and Teacher Wellbeing
Teachers are at the forefront of educational challenges, and they are responsible for shaping their student's social and emotional foundation in addition to providing academic knowledge. When schools implement SEL programs, they frequently focus on student outcomes, but the advantages to teachers are also considerable.
Research shows that teachers who integrate SEL feel less stressed and more fulfilled in their jobs. SEL creates a supportive work environment, improving both mental well-being and classroom dynamics, according to a study conducted by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL). These programs give instructors the tools they need to better control classroom conduct, which lowers stress and boosts their sense of achievement.
SEL Training for Teachers
Effective SEL integration requires proper training for teachers. This training involves not only learning how to deliver SEL content but also how to embody these practices in everyday teaching. Professional development in SEL can help teachers understand their own emotions and manage stress, leading to improved classroom management and more empathetic interactions with students.
For example, programs like the RULER approach developed at Yale University emphasise the importance of recognising, understanding, labeling, expressing, and regulating emotions. This approach has been linked to positive outcomes not just for students but also for teachers, including enhanced emotional intelligence and reduced burnout rates.
Schools can start by incorporating SEL workshops, peer coaching sessions, and mindfulness exercises for teachers. These simple steps can make a significant difference in daily classroom interactions.
Impact on the Classroom Environment
When teachers are well-versed in SEL, the classroom environment transforms. Classrooms become more inclusive and supportive spaces where students feel valued and understood. This positive environment not only facilitates better learning but also improves teachers’ job satisfaction as they witness their students advancing socially and emotionally.
Moreover, SEL promotes a sense of community and connection among staff. When teachers collaborate on implementing SEL strategies, they form stronger professional relationships, which further enhances their job satisfaction.
For instance, a study in Keystone School found that teachers who practiced SEL techniques reported improved student engagement and a more positive classroom atmosphere.
The Ripple Effect of SEL on Teacher Retention
The benefits of SEL can extend to teacher retention. In an era where teacher burnout is increasingly common, providing tools through SEL that enhance emotional well-being can make the profession more sustainable and appealing. Schools that prioritize SEL are not just investing in their students but in their teachers as well, leading to a more stable and dedicated teaching staff.
The dual benefits of Social Emotional Learning for students and teachers highlight the necessity of incorporating SEL into educational systems. As we continue to steer through the complexities of teaching and learning in the 21st century, it is clear that SEL offers a pathway not only to improved student outcomes but also to enhanced teacher well-being and professional satisfaction. By embracing SEL, schools can create a more empathetic and effective educational ecosystem for all members of the school community.
SEL's emphasis on teaching and wellbeing is not just an educational investment, but also a crucial tactic for developing resilient, competent teachers who can support their students' and their own success in a world that is changing all the time.
Join KCITE in championing SEL for educators. Learn more about how SEL can transform your school community and empower teachers. Let’s work together to create a healthier, more effective learning environment for everyone. Also join our teachers’ community to make a difference: https://chat.whatsapp.com/Dv09d5t7opj5aF89tNQuqv
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