A Global Community-Based Approach to SEL
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) has proven vital for student success, fostering advocacy for integrating SEL across all areas of education. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the Grow X team has been developing and implementing an exciting new programming approach that combines international collaboration and community engagement to create an adaptable SEL model that can address each community’s SEL needs without burdening the school systems. This model unites educators, students, and families across the world, demonstrating powerful and lasting impact of shared efforts.
Our community-based approach has been recognized by SEL scholars and educators, resulting in a peer-reviewed publication in Social and Emotional Learning: Research, Practice, and Policy, the premier international journal for SEL research, sponsored by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL).
In the published article, we shared two of our international programs, our Grow X Global Academy (read more here), and another collaboration with the Early Childhood Education Department of Woosong University and school systems in South Korea. Working as teaching teams, U.S. college students partnered with Korean pre-service teachers to deliver immersive social, emotional, and cultural learning experiences for over 150 preK through Grade 2 students. The program fostered collaboration among educators, families, and students, breaking down language and cultural barriers to support SEL effectively.
A standout event was the "Family SEL Day," where children and their families participated in various collaborative games from around the world, including dreidel-like games and jump-rope activities. This event emphasized the universal joy of play that fosters community connections. Additionally, a parent workshop was held to share the importance of SEL and the experiences of their children through the program. The day concluded with a picnic in the school’s backyard, further strengthening community bonds and fostering a fun, educational, collaborative spirits for all involved.
Upon completion, the Korean pre-service teachers reported that the program not only positively impacted the young children but also benefited themselves in several ways, including personal and professional growth, meaningful international relationships, intercultural competency, awareness of SEL's benefits, and enjoyment in working with children that would affect their career as emerging educators.
The article, titled A Global Community-Based Approach to Supporting Social and Emotional Learning, can be read here.