Developing Emotional Intelligence Through Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) in Inclusive Education

Abstract

This chapter explores how Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) promotes inclusive education by developing empathy, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills across diverse student populations. SEL programs are vital in equipping students with the necessary skills for emotional and social development, thereby improving both academic and relational outcomes. The integration of SEL necessitates comprehensive planning, robust teacher training, and curriculum adaptation to manage and support varied learning environments. Through the literature, this chapter discusses how SEL nurtures an inclusive classroom culture where all students feel valued and understood. SEL facilitates the personal growth of students by advancing their emotional intelligence and social skills, creating a supportive and empathetic education Challenges such as inconsistent program definitions, insufficient teacher training, and cultural insensitivity of SEL programs highlight the need for systematic implementation and adaptation of SEL strategies to meet diverse educational needs.