What Is SEL (Social-Emotional Learning)?
The process through which students develop self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults develop and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for emotional well-being, positive relationships, and responsible decision-making. The most widely used framework is CASEL's (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning) five core competencies.
The five competencies are: Self-Awareness (recognizing emotions and strengths), Self-Management (regulating emotions and behavior), Social Awareness (empathy and perspective-taking), Relationship Skills (communication and cooperation), and Responsible Decision-Making (making ethical and constructive choices).
SEL is not a separate curriculum — it's most effective when integrated into academic instruction, classroom culture, and school-wide practices. Research consistently shows that SEL programs improve academic achievement, reduce behavioral problems, and decrease emotional distress.
Related Terms
PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports)
A school-wide framework for preventing behavioral problems through clear expectations, positive reinforcement, and tiered supports.
MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports)
A comprehensive framework that integrates academic instruction, behavioral supports, and social-emotional learning across multiple tiers of intensity.
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