Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is a research-based approach that has been gaining popularity in the education space. It emphasizes the importance of teaching children skills that are crucial for their emotional well-being and overall success in life. In this article, we will explore what research says about the effectiveness of SEL in improving the behavior and academic outcomes of 9-year-olds.
Firstly, it is important to understand what Social Emotional Learning entails. SEL can be defined as the process through which children acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that enable them to navigate the complexities of social interactions and regulate their emotional responses effectively. It encompasses five core competencies – self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
Research studies have shown that SEL programs can have a positive impact on students‘ academic performance and behavioral outcomes. In a study conducted by Durlak et al. (2011), researchers analyzed data from 213 school-based interventions involving 270,034 students from pre-kindergarten to high school. The results of the meta-analysis showed that students who participated in SEL programs demonstrated significant improvements in their social and emotional skills, attitudes, and behavior. Additionally, these students also scored higher on academic achievement tests.
Another study conducted by Taylor et al. (2017) found that students who participated in SEL programs had a lower likelihood of experiencing behavioral problems such as aggression, delinquency, and substance abuse. They were also more likely to exhibit positive behaviors such as empathy, self-control, and responsible decision-making.
The effectiveness of SEL programs is not limited to traditional academic subjects such as math and science. In fact, research has shown that SEL can also improve students’ performance in non-academic domains such as physical education. In a study conducted by Telljohann et al. (2015), researchers found that students who participated in an SEL program designed for physical education classes demonstrated improved prosocial behaviors, teamwork, and self-regulation.
It is also worth noting that SEL interventions have a greater impact on students from low-income households and those that are at risk of academic failure. For example, a study conducted by Riggs et al. (2006) found that an SEL program that was implemented in a low-income elementary school had a positive impact on the academic performance of students in the school. Additionally, students who participated in the program also demonstrated improvements in their peer relationships, self-regulation, and emotional well-being.
research has consistently shown that Social Emotional Learning is an effective approach for improving the behavior and academic outcomes of 9-year-olds. The development of social and emotional skills is crucial for the success of children, both in the classroom and in life. Implementing SEL programs in schools can provide students with the tools they need to navigate complex social interactions, regulate their emotional responses, and make responsible decisions. As educators and parents, it is important to prioritize the social and emotional well-being of our children, and SEL is a powerful tool to accomplish this.
You may also be interested in reading this interesting article on HOW CAN PARENTS USE MODELING AND COACHING TO REINFORCE SOCIAL EMOTIONAL SKILLS IN THEIR 9-YEAR-OLD? where similar topics are discussed.
Did you know that…
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A metaanalysis of 24 studies conducted between 2000 and 2018 found that social emotional learning (SEL) programs had a significant positive effect on academic outcomes and behavior in 9yearolds. The average effect size for academic outcomes was 33, indicating a moderate effect. The average effect size for behavior was 48, indicating a large effect. The results were consistent across different types of SEL programs, including those that focused on selfawareness, selfmanagement, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. This suggests that SEL can be an effective intervention for improving the academic performance and behavior of 9yearolds.
Some Statistics
- A study conducted by the University of MissouriSt. Louis found that social emotional learning (SEL) had a positive impact on the behavior and academic outcomes of 9yearolds. The study found that students who participated in SEL programs showed significant improvements in their academic performance, including higher grades, better attendance, and fewer disciplinary referrals. In addition, the students also reported improved selfesteem and social skills. The study concluded that SEL can be an effective intervention for improving the academic performance and behavior of 9yearolds.
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