Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process of acquiring the competencies to recognize and manage emotions, develop caring and concern for others, establish positive relationships, make responsible decisions, and handle challenging situations effectively. In short, SEL competencies comprise the foundational skills for positive health practices and interpersonal relationships, engaged citizenship, and school success. SEL is sometimes called “the missing piece,” because it represents a part of education that is inextricably linked to school success, but has not been explicitly stated or given much attention until recently. SEL emphasizes active learning approaches in which skills can be generalized across curriculum areas and contexts when opportunities are provided to practice the skills that foster positive attitudes, behaviours, and thinking processes.
We have created a SEL concentration option in the HDLC M.A. program for students with an interest in learning more about theories, research, and practice in the area of social and emotional learning and development. This concentration will be offered in the HDLC Master’s programs or as a “sub-specialization” for graduate students from other programs at UBC (e.g., Social Work, Nursing, Psychology, Human Kinetics) who have an interest in developing a greater understanding of SEL.
Interested in learning more? Please take a moment to review the social and emotional learning resources available at the SEL Resource Finder site.
MA students are eligible to apply for Tri-Council Grants in their first year only.
Social and Emotional Learning Concentration Information (33 credits)
PGS form can be found on HDLC Forms & Resources page.