Can Communication and Emotional Learning Create Better Classrooms?
Well developed social skills are fundamental to flourishing within local and global communities, in careers, and in relationships of all kinds. Learning to use these skills early in life can help guarantee success in school and in later endeavors. Confident communication and social awareness can also lead to a more pleasant and effective classroom for both students and their teachers.
Communication is a critical part of any strong educational experience. Unfortunately, in many traditional classrooms, especially in early childhood education, communication too often runs in one direction – from instructor to student. This is most recognized in the typical lecture model used for teaching Core Academics. This one-way communication pattern prevents a dynamic classroom from developing and limits the student’s ability to grow as a strong communicator with both adults and their fellow students.
Breaking from this single direction pattern establishes a culture of open communication between teacher, students, and their peers. In early childhood students, communication can be demonstrated in a number of ways: including verbally, nonverbally, artistic expression, and through exhibiting interest in specific topics. Rather than holding to a strict lecture style class, teachers can take advantage of these various methods of communication to build a better functioning, more engaging, and happier classroom.
By encouraging open communication throughout members of the classroom, teachers assist students through issues with miscommunication, promote team interaction with peers, and allow students to take an active role in planning their curriculum to match their interests.
The benefits of adaptive communication in the classroom are two-fold. First, open and aware communication between students prevents negative interactions and fosters a more candid, equitable classroom for all participants. A classroom with less conflict between students is one that can better harbor an environment in which students can thrive. Students who can communicate well with their peers are also better equipped to understand their role within society and develop healthy relationships.
Strong communication between students and their teachers can ensure that all students are fully engaged with their education. A learning model that focuses on the learner urges students to communicate their interests to their teachers, who can then help them to explore these passions through discovery questions and interest-focused projects that support their curiosity.
Finally, a student who understands how to effectively communicate will be better prepared for success later in life. With the understanding that students are our future leaders, social and emotional learning helps these young people to become more socially and self aware, creating responsible members of the community.