Research shows that when implemented with fidelity, the Second Step program works. To make sure you’re getting the most out of your Second Step program, you must be able to measure the quality of your implementation and if the SEL program is working. If an intervention isn’t improving student outcomes, it’s important to understand [...]
Social and emotional learning (SEL) shouldn’t stop once school lets out. There are many ways educators can incorporate SEL activities into afterschool and summer learning programs. In fact, because of the structure and close relationships many out-of-school settings provide, these can be ideal places to foster social-emotional skills in students. Below are five ways [...]
Research shows that we all have implicit biases. Neuroscientists have found that our brains tend to quickly categorize others as a way to identify threats. These categorizations are often based on institutional race or gender stereotypes that we have been exposed to from a young age. Different than stereotypes or racism, implicit bias is [...]
Actionable social-emotional data is an important part of any SEL (social and emotional learning) program. Quality, research-based SEL assessments can help you achieve the best implementation results and can help educators streamline instruction, tailor supports to achieve predefined learning goals, and effectively measure outcomes. But not all SEL assessments are created equal. When selecting [...]
Today, more than ever, classrooms in the United States are full of English language learners (ELLs). In fact, about one in 10 students consider English as their second language. ELL and immigrant students have unique learning needs. Many are unfamiliar with U.S. cultural norms and learning a new language can be difficult. These students often [...]
4 Ways SEL Can Reduce Bullying Incidents in Your School Everyone is affected by bullying. Students who bully others are more likely to demonstrate violent or criminal behavior and abuse drugs and alcohol. Victims of bullying can experience depression, loneliness, and anxiety — all of which can last into adulthood. Even students who witness [...]
“Rater bias” is present when a significant amount of variation in an assessment’s scores can be attributed to factors related to the person completing the assessment, rather than factors related to the skills being assessed. For example, consider a teacher-completed assessment of students’ SEL skills. If all male teachers tend to rate students as exhibiting [...]
Spring is just around the corner, and soon students will be taking college entrance exams and planning for life after high school. Unfortunately, research shows that most schools are not adequately preparing students for college and/or their careers. Students often struggle with post-secondary coursework, and many lack the social and emotional skills needed to thrive [...]
