Abstract:

Traditional approaches to behavior management of incentives and consequences leave educators chasing behaviors. A new norm, one that focuses on developing students’ social emotional development, offers far greater opportunity for developing a positive culture for learning. This paper describes a multi-component training for educators and youth that sought to foster social emotional development while simultaneously building a collaborative atmosphere to create positive behavioral norms. The theoretical basis of the training program will be discussed along with a detailed description of the program. An overview of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) will be provided. An exploration of how strengthened SEL competencies of self-awareness, social awareness, self-management, relationship skills and responsible decision builds capacity for resiliency and sustainable behavior improvement will take place. Specific strategies for incorporating SEL skill development into school classroom and community-based programs will be provided. Early evidence of effectiveness will be described.

Keywords:

Social Emotional Learning, children, youth jobs, professional development, urban education, classroom management.