Emotional Intelligence – What Is It? Why Does It Matter? How Can We Help Students Develop It?

Emotional intelligence refers to our ability to regulate and control our emotions and to understand, interpret, respond to, and empathize with the emotions of others. Too often an effective education is measured by the academic achievements of students (e.g., performance on standardized tests and grades), rather than by how well educational experiences improve a child's ability to perceive, control, and evaluate emotions and work effectively with others. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education does not assign accountability levels to schools and districts based on the social and emotional competence of students; accountability levels are assigned based on standardized test scores and educational attainment.

Should we be more concerned with increasing students' emotional intelligence and fostering learning environments that recognize the importance of explicitly teaching effective interpersonal skills? Researchers in business, education, and psychology respond to this question with a resounding, "Yes." Daniel Goleman, author of Emotional Intelligence Why It Can Matter More Than IQ, wrote the following on his website:

In 1995, I outlined the preliminary evidence suggesting that SEL (social and emotional learning) was the active ingredient in programs that enhance children's learning while preventing problems such as violence. Now the case can be made scientifically: helping children improve their self-awareness and confidence, manage their disturbing emotions and impulses, and increase their empathy pays off not just in improved behavior but in measurable academic achievement. Click here for more.

Business analysts share Goleman's belief in the importance of emotional intelligence. Travis Bradberry, a contributor to Forbes magazine, described the link between emotional intelligence and career success. In a January 2014 article Bradberry wrote:

How much of an impact does emotional intelligence have on your professional success? The short answer is: a lot! It's a powerful way to focus your energy in one direction with a tremendous result. TalentSmart tested emotional intelligence alongside 33 other important workplace skills, and found that emotional intelligence is the strongest predictor of performance, explaining a full 58% of success in all types of jobs. Click here for more.

Given the role emotional intelligence plays in academic and career success and having healthy, satisfying relationships, what can schools and parents do to help children develop these skills? The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) recommends schools implement evidence-based programs that explicitly teach children five competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Principal Udall and the staff at Hadley Elementary School have fully implemented two programs recommended by CASEL, Second Step (grades K-2) and Steps to Respect (grades 3-6). In 2014, HES began Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, another research-based program designed to improve students' social and emotional skills. Hopkins Academy has also implemented programs to improve students' social competencies. Principal Beck, the faculty and students have started incorporating elements of Restorative Justice and Active Bystander training to foster a positive and support school climate.

Social and emotional learning is most effective when it is supported at school and at home. Edutopia.org provides strategies and resources for families to support social and emotional development. Please take a moment to explore tools, ideas, and strategies for parents and families here.