Academics

What is See learning and why is it important?

Cambrian Hall has recently introduced SEE Learning (Social, Ethical, Emotional) in school because the concept of social-emotional learning is increasingly being viewed as something of immense value for today’s children. It is the process of developing self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills that are extremely important for school, work, and eventually success in life. In particular, the framework helps with self-preservation, self-control, relationship-building, and decision-making. It is a vital part of human development, equipping students with the skills, abilities, tools, and knowledge to build positive relationships, solve problems, make intelligent decisions, and achieve the necessary level of self-awareness apart from providing an excellent foundation for academic success.

Most teachers realise that they have the responsibility of helping students achieve good grades and leave school with the best possible personal development. Doing so allows them to step out of the portals of the school as individuals ready to achieve success in the future.

Moreover, social-emotional learning has a role to play within the context of pushes for inclusive learning and accessible education. As schools embrace people from different backgrounds, who face diverse challenges, students need to understand this and develop empathy and compassion.

A few important Social-Emotional Learning areas include Self-awareness which is the leading skill in social-emotional learning. Simply put, it is the ability to understand one’s own emotions, thoughts, and values and how they influence how someone behaves. Developing self-awareness often requires students to reflect on their preconceptions and prejudices and create a mindset that assists continuous personal growth. Hence, self-awareness is about self-reflection and understanding who you are as a person.

Something that is closely related to self-awareness is Self-management. It is the ability to effectively manage one’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviours in different situations. It means that it involves students navigating their thoughts, behaviours, and emotions so that they develop an ability to make decisions that benefit not only themselves but also those around them.

Social awareness follows self-awareness closely in this concept. While self-awareness is the ability of students to understand themselves and their actions, social awareness is about becoming more aware of other people and demonstrating empathy at the same time. It includes the ability to understand the perspectives of others, and to appreciate diversity in terms of different backgrounds and cultures. The concept of social awareness can be summarised as “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” also known as the `Golden Rule’.

Relationship skills are another area that is addressed in the concept of SEE learning. It can be broadly defined as the ability to build and maintain cordial and meaningful relationships with other people.

Finally, responsible decision-making teaches students to evaluate the benefits and consequences of their decisions.

I feel that Social-emotional learning is extremely important for students as it teaches them the ability to understand themselves, develop a positive self-image, take responsibility for their actions, and forge relationships with the people around them. It can also help them to build confidence and self-esteem.