Social-emotional learning programs
Social-emotional learning programs
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There are many SEL programs out there. The following criteria were used to narrow down the list to a manageable few.
Peer-Reviewed Research
Non-curricular Programs
Sufficient Training and Resources
For Most or All Grades (K-8/K-12)
Due to the criteria, the list will likely skew to more established programs. That does not mean that newer programs are less good. They are just less likely to have the strong research backing that older programs have had time to establish.
With that in mind, I aim to update the list occasionally and I am open to researching new non-curricular programs as they develop. Feel free to email me any potential program you have heard of that you believe meets (or will meet) the criteria.
Criteria & rationale
Criteria & rationale
Peer-Reviewed Research
Peer-Reviewed Research
While all SEL programs are founded on the same SEL concepts and principles, not all SEL programs are created equal. Some have been thoughtfully developed and researched over years, and have gained a reputation for being strong and effective programs.
To qualify for The Short List, programs must report statistically significant benefits in a peer-reviewed research study, not just internal or marketing research. While peer-reviewed status does not guarantee the accuracy of research results, it increases the likelihood that good research methodology was implemented during the processes and is one way to sort through the endless list of SEL programs.
Curricular vs. Non-Curricular
Curricular vs. Non-Curricular
Some SEL programs have pre-packaged lessons, activities, and games that teachers can assign to students to facilitate growth and discussion. This format is not ideal for SDA schools because teachers lack the control to shape lessons and the language to be in line with Adventist beliefs. Some SEL programs incorporate meditation, which can be controversial within the Adventist church. While the general SEL principles are sound, curricular programs take control away from the teachers to provide an Adventist context to the principles.
In contrast, programs like Conscious Discipline and Responsive Classroom provide training, tools, and guidelines that schools and teachers can use to develop SEL skills in their classrooms. This is the best option for Adventist schools, as it allows the teachers to build their own lesson plans using an Adventist worldview to guide their integration of SEL activities and lessons.
Teacher Training and Resources
Teacher Training and Resources
Much like students, teachers learn best in different ways. Not all teachers can read a book and master the principles it contains. Some will learn better by hearing an exciting presentation of the material, others through role-play and practice.
The best SEL programs offer sufficient training and tools for the teachers to master the skills themselves before attempting to implement them in the classroom. Also, programs shouldn't require that schools pay thousands of dollars to implement a program successfully but should have resources available should the school wish to purchase them.
Team building at a South Bay Christian school-wide event.
consciousdiscipline.com
(1999)
Conscious Discipline
Conscious Discipline
Grades: Teacher training, all grades; Student structures, PreK-6th
Research: Multiple experimental studies on CD
General Approach: Organizational approach to schoolwide, systemic SEL; classroom management; teaching practices to promote SEL, resiliency, and self-regulation; trauma-informed care
Adventist Perspective: This love and family focused teaching philosophy and redemption-based discipline approach has a foundation that is very compatible with Adventist beliefs. The program aims to keep the principles simple, and it's easier to ease into as compared to Responsive Classrooms. Even small changes produce noticeable results.
innerexplorer.org
(2007)
Inner Explorer
Inner Explorer
Grades: K-8
Research: Formatted on an evidence-based protocol (MBSR); multiple randomized control trials of IE
General Approach: Daily mindfulness practice; emotion regulation; stress management; compassion; social-emotional competencies
Adventist Perspective: The focus on intentional breathing can be used to incorporate quiet reflection and prayer to build SEL competencies. While the program may not be of interest to Christians/Adventist, the research and principles discussed are worth investigation. Dedicating 10 minutes a day to prayer and reflection is easy to incorporate into existing programming.
playworks.org
(1996)
Playworks
Playworks
Grades: K-8
Research: Multiple randomized control trials
General Approach: Physical wellness; social and emotional growth; play-based learning; integrating SEL into recess; health and fitness
Adventist Perspective: Most schools already incorporate recess for younger students. While a full Playworks program may not be feasible, using guided play or P.E. for teaching SEL principles is possible. This is possibly the easiest program to integrate on a limited basis.
responsiveclassroom.org
(1981)
Responsive Classroom
Responsive Classroom
Grades: K-8
Research: Multiple quasi-experimental and randomized control trials
General Approach: Interactive modeling and learning structures; classroom management; educational environment; social and emotional competencies; academic mindset; perseverance
Adventist Perspective: As the most established program, Responsive Classroom is a comprehensive program that is compatible with Christian Beliefs. It focuses on relationship and community building though teacher training. It is training-intensive and may be more comprehensive than some schools are willing to commit to, but it also may be worth it if you're wanting to transform the educational experience at your school.
participate
participate
Interested in participating in a future study of SEL Implementation in Adventist classrooms?
Contact a.escalante@lasierra.edu to get more information on the project.
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