Social-emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which people acquire and apply knowledge, attitudes, and skills for managing emotions, setting goals, showing empathy, building relationships, and making responsible decisions. SEL supports both academic success and life outcomes.
Core Competencies
CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning) identifies five core competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Quality SEL programs explicitly teach these skills.
Implementation
SEL can be implemented through dedicated curricula, integration across subjects, school-wide practices, and family engagement. Research shows SEL programs improve academic achievement, behavior, and emotional well-being while reducing problem behaviors.