SEL for Students: A Path to Social Emotional Well-Being from Coursera

Social and emotional learning, or SEL, programs have flourished in schools during the last decade. In this course the instructor (Emily Price) introduces you to the history and framings of social and emotional learning preK-12 curricula, as well as various elementary, middle, and high school SEL programs and associated research.

This course is a part of the 5-course Specialization “The Teacher and Social Emotional Learning (SEL)”. Interested in earning 3 university credits from the University of Colorado-Boulder for this specialization? If so check out "How you can earn 3 university credits from the University of Colorado-Boulder for this specialization" reading in the first module of this course for additional information.

We want to note that the courses in this Specialization were designed with a three-credit university course load in mind. As a participant you may notice a bit more reading content and a little less video/lecture content. Completing and passing the SEL Specialization allows the participant to apply for 3 graduate credits toward teacher re-certification and professional enhancement. We want to ensure the quality and high standards of a University of Colorado learning experience.

Interested in earning 3 graduate credits from the University of Colorado-Boulder for The Teacher and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Specialization? Check out "How you can earn 3 university credits from the University of Colorado-Boulder for this specialization" reading in the first week of this course for more information.

What's inside

Syllabus

Social Emotional Well-Being for Students

This course focuses on SEL for its most common audience – students in P-12 school-based contexts. We begin this exploration by introducing the concept of social emotional well-being in Week 1. We explore what social emotional well-being is and investigate the relationship between it and the current emphasis on achievement in educational reform. Then, we highlight SEL as one means of developing social emotional well-being, positioning it in relation to other approaches, while highlighting our course’s focus on SEL programs and theories.

The Field of SEL: Purposes and Origins

In this section of the course, we trace the origins of the field of SEL, identifying how a perceived need for greater attention to children’s social and emotional development in schools grew in part from the popularization of theories of multiple intelligence and emotional intelligence in the mid to late 1990s. We identify other educational theories that support this work before attending to a discussion of what SEL is, identified primarily through its goals, purposes, and aims.

SEL Program Formats and Characteristics of Effective Programs

In this section of the course, we attend to the ways in which school-based SEL programs differ with regard to scope, focus, audience and mode of infusion. Additionally, we take up general considerations of the characteristics of effective programs and practices with the intent of providing participants the tools necessary to evaluate specific SEL programs.

SEL Across the Developmental Spectrum: Early Childhood and Elementary

The focus in this section of the course is on SEL programs in early childhood education and in elementary schools. We aim to provide a broad overview of programs on the market, and considerations specific to “doing SEL” with young children. Additionally, we aim to challenge participants to evaluate the usefulness of various programs for their own purposes with respect to the criteria and considerations identified in Week 3.

SEL Across the Developmental Spectrum: Middle and High School

The focus in this section of the course is on SEL programs in middle and high school contexts. We aim to provide a broad overview of programs on the market, considerations specific to “doing SEL” with older students, and an exploration of why SEL is particularly important at this stage in development. Additionally, we will highlight YPAR as one means of critically attending to principles of SEL as a preview of the focus of Course B. Finally, we aim to challenge participants to evaluate the usefulness of various programs for their own purposes with respect to the criteria and considerations identified in Week 2.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores social emotional well-being, a key element in educational reform

Traces origins of SEL back to the late 1990s, providing context for its development

Provides tools for evaluating SEL programs, empowering participants to make informed decisions

Highlights SEL's importance in middle and high school, addressing developmental needs

Taught by experienced instructors Emily Claire Price and Dan Liston, ensuring course quality

Offers the opportunity to earn university credits for professional enhancement

Reviews summary

Positive sel guide

Learners say this course is a highly recommended resource for anyone working with children or adolescents. It provides a thorough overview of social and emotional learning (SEL) with real-life examples and practical applications. The course materials include informative videos, engaging readings, and thought-provoking discussions that are well-organized and presented by knowledgeable instructors. Students appreciate the easy-to-understand delivery and wealth of information shared throughout the course.

Provides practical applications and tools for implementing SEL in educational settings.

"I have registered for the specialty which includes this module"

"It will be very useful for all adults who are engage with students for Social and Emotional learning and wellbeing."

"The course is designed in such a way that it give you the basic tools for further investigation into the subject."

Features a variety of engaging and informative content, including videos, readings, and discussions.

"I loved this course as it made it so simple and clear."

"Lots of pertinent information on SEL program. It was easy to understand the structure of what we should see within a SEL program, and appreciate how that was communicated in videos, visuals, and articles."

"The pure research based approach is an added advantage."

Emphasizes the critical importance of SEL for students' well-being and future success.

"it's critical educators and the community of support understand how important students SEL is to their present experience which affects their future and the choices they make."

"This course provided me with an excellent overview of the historical, present context and future trend of SEL."

"I found the course extremely helpful in channeling my thoughts on Social ans Emotional Learning."

A few learners noted potential biases in some of the reading materials.

"A few reading was bias to particular social theories."

Some learners expressed concerns about a lack of practical exercises and tools.

"it was good course but less practical except quizzes and readings."

"I would suggest to provide more info about the tools or practices that we can use or implement with kids and adolescents to develop social and emotional learning, apart of talking about the programs that are currently available in the matter."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in SEL for Students: A Path to Social Emotional Well-Being with these activities:

Review SEL Principles

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Prepare for the course by reviewing the core principles of social and emotional learning.

Browse courses on Social Emotional Learning

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Read articles or books on SEL
Research SEL programs and initiatives
Attend a workshop or training on SEL

Explore Online SEL Resources

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Enhance your understanding of SEL by exploring online resources such as videos, articles, and interactive simulations.

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Visit websites and platforms dedicated to SEL
Use search engines to find articles and videos on SEL topics
Follow social media accounts of SEL experts and organizations

Attend an SEL Conference or Workshop

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Expand your knowledge and network with professionals in the field of SEL by attending a conference or workshop.

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Research upcoming SEL events
Register for an event that aligns with your interests
Attend the event and actively participate in sessions and workshops

Five other activities

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Complete SEL Self-Assessments and Practice Exercises

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Gain self-awareness and practice applying SEL principles in your own life by completing self-assessments and exercises.

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Take online SEL self-assessments
Engage in role-playing exercises to practice SEL skills
Reflect on your own experiences and identify areas for growth

Design an SEL Lesson Plan

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Apply the concepts learned in the course by creating a lesson plan that incorporates SEL principles.

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Choose an age group and subject area
Identify SEL competencies to be addressed
Select activities and strategies to teach SEL skills
Develop a lesson plan outline

Discuss SEL Research Findings

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Engage with peers to critically analyze research on SEL and its impact on students.

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Form a study group with classmates
Select research articles or studies on SEL
Review and discuss the findings
Develop a summary or presentation of the research

Volunteer as an SEL Tutor

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Gain practical experience and make a meaningful impact by volunteering as an SEL tutor for students.

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Contact local schools or organizations offering SEL programs
Inquire about volunteer opportunities
Receive training and guidance from experienced SEL professionals
Provide support and guidance to students in developing their SEL skills

Create an SEL Social Media Campaign

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Engage with the broader community and raise awareness about SEL by creating a social media campaign.

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Identify a target audience and message
Develop engaging content and visuals
Choose appropriate social media platforms
Launch and monitor the campaign
Evaluate the impact and make adjustments as needed

Career center

Learners who complete SEL for Students: A Path to Social Emotional Well-Being will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Special Education Teacher

A Special Education Teacher works with students with developmental delays or disabilities to help them learn and reach their full potential. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to create a supportive and engaging learning environment for students with special needs. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to implement them in your classroom, which can help you to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students.

See salaries and explore the career path for Special Education Teacher

School Counselor

A School Counselor provides academic, social, and emotional support to students. This course can help you prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to help students develop their social and emotional skills. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to implement them in your school, which can help you to create a more supportive and positive school climate.

See salaries and explore the career path for School Counselor

Social Worker

A Social Worker helps people to overcome social and emotional challenges. This course can help you prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to help people develop their social and emotional skills. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to implement them in your community, which can help you to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Child Psychologist

A Child Psychologist helps children to overcome mental health challenges. This course can help you prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to help children develop their social and emotional skills. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to implement them in your practice, which can help you to make a positive impact on the lives of children.

See salaries and explore the career path for Child Psychologist

Youth Counselor

A Youth Counselor provides support and guidance to young people. This course can help you prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to help young people develop their social and emotional skills. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to implement them in your work, which can help you to make a positive impact on the lives of young people.

See salaries and explore the career path for Youth Counselor

Teacher

A Teacher helps students to learn and grow. This course can help you prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to create a supportive and engaging learning environment for all students. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to implement them in your classroom, which can help you to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

Guidance Counselor

A Guidance Counselor helps people to make decisions about their education, career, and personal life. This course can help you prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to help people develop their social and emotional skills. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to implement them in your work, which can help you to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

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Educational Psychologist

An Educational Psychologist helps students to overcome learning challenges. This course can help you prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to help students develop their social and emotional skills. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to implement them in your work, which can help you to make a positive impact on the lives of students.

See salaries and explore the career path for Educational Psychologist

Nonprofit Program Manager

A Nonprofit Program Manager plans and implements programs that address social issues. This course can help you prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and implement SEL programs. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to evaluate their effectiveness, which can help you to create programs that make a positive impact on the community.

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Youth Advocate

A Youth Advocate provides support and guidance to young people. This course can help you prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to help young people develop their social and emotional skills. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to implement them in your work, which can help you to make a positive impact on the lives of young people.

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Community Organizer

A Community Organizer works with community members to address social issues. This course can help you prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and implement SEL programs. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to evaluate their effectiveness, which can help you to create programs that make a positive impact on the community.

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Human Resources Manager

A Human Resources Manager oversees the hiring, training, and development of employees. This course may be useful in helping you to prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to create a supportive and positive work environment. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to implement them in your workplace, which can help you to create a more productive and engaged workforce.

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Instructional Designer

An Instructional Designer creates and develops educational materials. This course may be useful in helping you to prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to create effective learning experiences. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to incorporate them into your instructional materials, which can help you to create more engaging and effective learning experiences for students.

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Curriculum Developer

A Curriculum Developer creates and develops educational programs. This course may be useful in helping you to prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to create effective learning experiences. You will learn about different SEL programs and how to incorporate them into your curriculum, which can help you to create more engaging and effective learning experiences for students.

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Education Policy Analyst

An Education Policy Analyst researches and analyzes education policies. This course may be useful in helping you to prepare for this role by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and evaluate education policies. You will learn about different SEL programs and how they are being implemented in schools, which can help you to make informed recommendations about education policy.

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