SEL Implementation in an Elementary Classroom

There is a strong need for SEL implementation at the classroom and building level to better support students’ social, emotional, and academic success. A definition of SEL is stated in Wallender, Hiebel, PeQueen, & Kain’s article (2020) as, “a set of skills that individuals need to succeed in schooling, the workplace, relationships, and citizenship” (Jones & Bouffard, 2012, p. 4).

According to Jones & Kahn (2017, as cited in Wallender, Hiebel, PeQueen, & Kain’s article, 2020), “SEL can encompass a set of tools for learning, a way to promote resilience, a morality or character-building exercise, or even a set of neurocognitive skills.” Supporting SEL within a school and classroom setting supports a child’s overall developmental process. At its most basic level, SEL is two competencies that support the whole child; intrapersonal and interpersonal. Intrapersonal include competencies that are necessary to effectively function as an individual. Some of these skills are regulating emotions, setting goals, self-control, having a positive, growth mindset, and coping. Interpersonal competencies include skills that are required to interact with other people in a successful way. Some of these skills are listening to others, solving social problems, and communication.

Having a sense of self-awareness supports the ability to assess one’s strengths while maintaining a sense of confidence, optimism, and a growth mindset. Self-management skills help people effectively manage stress, control impulses, and motivate oneself. Social awareness allows the ability to express empathy, have a respect for others, and appreciate diversity in your community. Relationship skills are important because they allow students to establish and maintain healthy relationships with diverse individuals and groups by communicating clearly and being cooperative. Finally, responsible decision-making allows students to analyze, solve problems, and reflect on problem-solving strategies (Wallender, Hiebel, PeQueen, et al., 2020.)

Above is an action research paper on SEL Implementation in elementary classrooms. The experience of writing an action research paper has taught me a lot about being a better educator. I have the confidence to enact change in my classroom in order to best support the needs of my students through a very clear process. I’ve always incorporated SEL into my instruction through read alouds, community circles, team-building exercises, and self-help strategies. I haven’t always collected data to guide my instruction in the area of SEL. The act of researching SEL has confirmed the importance it has in every classroom. The process of action research might be long and sometimes tiring, but the potential impact it has on a classroom setting makes it extremely worth it. With action research, educators can create a more personalized learning environment for students with skills and strategies taught that are specific to their needs. The implementation of SEL can be so beneficial for elementary students, educators, the school community, and beyond, and I look forward to putting my action research into practice.

Supporting community circles with Circle Prompts and Conversation Cards