Social-Emotional Learning

A positive and inclusive classroom environment is a vital factor in ensuring that all learners feel safe and valued. A sense of belonging has been identified as a key factor in both learner motivation and well-being. In this course, participants will explore the definition of a sense of belonging and determine its impact on learners in the classroom. Participants will then explore strategies for fostering a sense of community and belonging in the classroom before developing a plan for establishing and maintaining that sense of belonging. Participants will then be able to effectively determine the impact a sense of belonging has on the classrooms.

Learning is deeply social so it’s no wonder that strong interpersonal relationships and the knowledge that an individual learner is valued, respected, and belongs in a classroom environment is integral to motivated, engaged students. Exploring the question, “what happens to individual students when they lack the feeling of belonging or acceptance?”, participants will describe how a sense of belonging impacts learners' motivation and development of identity. Participants will then explore strategies for creating and strengthening strong interpersonal relationships between teachers and peers and develop a plan for establishing a sense of belonging for every learner.

Empathy is an essential piece of academic, social, and emotional wellbeing. Understanding what empathy is and how it so critically impacts our day-to-day interactions is essential in effectively building and overcoming barriers to empathy in the classroom. In this course, participants will explore the definition of empathy and develop an awareness of how empathy impacts students well being and success. Participants will then explore strategies for building empathy in the classroom and develop a plan for effectively leveraging these practices for the social-emotional and academic well-being of their students.

Experiencing trauma can slow down or halt one's learning ability. Students who have experienced trauma are more likely to fall behind in school or get in trouble for behavioral issues. Trauma-sensitive practices consider how trauma impacts learning and behavior. This course will guide you through using a trauma-sensitive lens to unpack strategies that look beyond behavior to help create a safe environment where students' needs can be met academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. Leave this course ready to meet your students where they are is they ever face a traumatic event, and learn strategies you can implement to meet their needs.