How can teachers assess and monitor social emotional learning outcomes in the classroom?

1 Define SEL competencies

The first step to assess and monitor SEL outcomes is to define what SEL competencies are and how they align with the curriculum and the learning objectives. SEL competencies are the knowledge, skills, and habits that students need to succeed in school and life, such as self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Teachers can use frameworks and standards, such as the CASEL SELect Program Guide, to identify and prioritize the SEL competencies that are relevant and appropriate for their grade level and subject area.

2 Use formative and summative assessments

The second step to assess and monitor SEL outcomes is to use both formative and summative assessments to collect and analyze data on students' SEL skills and progress. Formative assessments are ongoing and informal ways of checking students' understanding and feedback, such as observations, discussions, reflections, and self-assessments. Summative assessments are more formal and structured ways of evaluating students' performance and outcomes, such as rubrics, portfolios, surveys, and tests. Teachers can use a variety of tools and methods, such as the DESSA Mini, the SELweb, and the SEL Competency Assessment, to measure students' SEL competencies and growth.

3 Provide feedback and support

The third step to assess and monitor SEL outcomes is to provide feedback and support to students based on the assessment data. Feedback is essential for students to recognize their strengths and areas for improvement, as well as to set goals and action plans for their SEL development. Feedback should be specific, timely, positive, and constructive, and should involve students in the process of self-reflection and self-regulation. Support is also crucial for students to feel valued, respected, and motivated, as well as to access the resources and guidance they need to enhance their SEL skills. Support can be provided through individualized or group interventions, such as coaching, mentoring, counseling, or peer support.

4 Integrate SEL into instruction and classroom culture

The fourth step to assess and monitor SEL outcomes is to integrate SEL into instruction and classroom culture, so that students can practice and apply their SEL skills in authentic and meaningful contexts. Integrating SEL into instruction means embedding SEL content and strategies into the academic curriculum and pedagogy, such as using cooperative learning, project-based learning, social problem-solving, and critical thinking. Integrating SEL into classroom culture means creating a positive and supportive learning environment that fosters trust, respect, collaboration, and diversity, such as using norms, routines, rituals, and recognition.

5 Involve families and communities

The fifth step to assess and monitor SEL outcomes is to involve families and communities in the SEL process, as they play a vital role in reinforcing and extending students' SEL learning beyond the classroom. Involving families and communities means communicating and collaborating with them on the goals, expectations, and outcomes of SEL, as well as providing them with information and resources to support their children's SEL development at home and in the community. Involving families and communities can also include inviting them to participate in SEL activities, events, and programs, such as workshops, conferences, service-learning, or advocacy.

6 Review and refine SEL practices

The sixth step to assess and monitor SEL outcomes is to review and refine SEL practices based on the assessment data and feedback from students, families, and communities. Reviewing and refining SEL practices means evaluating the effectiveness and impact of the SEL program, curriculum, instruction, and culture, as well as identifying the strengths, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Reviewing and refining SEL practices can also involve engaging in professional learning and development, such as sharing best practices, seeking feedback, attending trainings, or joining networks.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?