The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) has been at the forefront of the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) movement since its inception in 1994. CASEL’s mission is to ensure that SEL becomes an integral part of education worldwide, driving social-emotional growth alongside academic excellence.
What is CASEL?
CASEL provides a research-based framework that helps schools integrate SEL into their education systems. This framework promotes the development of five core competencies essential for student success:
- Self-awareness: Understanding one’s emotions, strengths, and areas for growth.
- Self-management: Regulating emotions, managing stress, and demonstrating self-discipline.
- Social awareness: Empathizing with others and understanding diverse cultural perspectives.
- Relationship skills: Communicating effectively, building relationships, and resolving conflicts.
- Responsible decision-making: Making ethical and constructive decisions, both personally and socially.
CASEL’s systemic approach emphasizes creating equitable learning environments and involving key stakeholders such as families, teachers, and communities.
CASEL’s Evaluation Criteria
Programs endorsed by CASEL are evaluated based on specific criteria—SELect, Promising, and SEL-Supportive—measuring both effectiveness and design. If a program meets higher evaluation criteria (SELect) but lower design standards (Promising), its final designation reflects the lower of the two.
Programs aligned with CASEL’s framework reflect a range of approaches:
- Integrated SEL: SEL is embedded within academic subjects like mathematics or social studies.
- Free-standing lessons: Standalone lessons explicitly designed to foster SEL competencies, such as stress management or empathy-building.
- School-wide strategies: Creating school-wide systems that support SEL implementation, sustain its long-term impact, and promote positive school cultures.
- Teaching practices: Incorporating SEL-focused teaching strategies such as project-based learning, cooperative learning, and reflective questioning.
Global Impact of CASEL’s Framework
The CASEL framework is not confined to the U.S. In fact, it has been adopted by schools worldwide:
- In the United States, 27 states have developed SEL standards based on CASEL, with over 90% of teachers supporting its implementation.
- Finland embeds SEL into its national curriculum, emphasizing emotional well-being and empathy.
- Singapore integrates SEL into its Character and Citizenship Education (CCE), helping students build emotional resilience.
Key Programs Supported by CASEL
CASEL supports various evidence-based SEL programs:
- Better Together Cubed (BT3): The signature SEL practices under BT3 education enhance the well-being of educators, students, and families, contributing to a healthier learning environment.
- RULER: Focuses on emotional intelligence and has led to significant reductions in bullying and improved school climates.
- MindUP: Promotes mindfulness and emotional regulation, making students more focused and engaged.
- Second Step: This program is focused on empathy, conflict resolution, and social decision-making.
Conclusion
CASEL is leading the charge in transforming education globally through its evidence-based framework. By emphasizing SEL, schools can help students excel academically while also fostering emotional intelligence and resilience. CASEL’s work is vital for ensuring students are not just academically successful but are also emotionally prepared for the complexities of the world.
