In BC, this September marks a shift from curriculum and content based learning with numerous Prescribed Learning Outcomes, to a model based on 3 Core Competencies (each highlighting essential learning outcomes): Communication Competencies, Thinking Competencies, and Personal & Social Competencies. So for us in BC, SEL fits cleanly into the Personal & Social Competencies category, but also into the Communication one…they are linked, as communication skills are critical to our interactions with others and how we express ourselves. But Thinking (both creatively and critically) also impacts our ability to problem solve, to understand the perspectives of others, and to understand our role in any given situation. Also SEL related. So as I see it, if we teach SEL, we are targeting different aspects of each of the Core Competencies. Besides, if someone can’t self-regulate long enough to interact with another or to focus on a concept/idea, how can they practice their communication skills or learn to creatively/critically think? We must first lay the foundation so that kids can learn. What is the point of trying to teach or facilitate learning when half of the class is physically and/or emotionally unable to learn because they are anxious or unregulated, or highly stressed? It’s futile. Just as we have to prepare the soil before we plant the seeds, we have to prepare the student for learning before we ask them to learn.
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AuthorI am a firm believer in the power of SEL. This quote strikes a chord for me with regards to my connection with SEL: ArchivesCategories |