Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is about what we “do” with our emotions. It provides a framework for enhancing our attitudes and mindset about the role of emotions, the knowledge or information we have and can learn from our emotions, and the skill with which we can attend to and manage emotions.
Research has shown that there has been an increase in educators reporting that they feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and unhappy which ultimately leads to job dissatisfaction and burnout. Additionally, students have reported feelings of stress, frustration, boredom, and anxiety. Extensive research conducted by The Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence lead by Dr. Marc Brackett has shown that emotionally skilled students have less anxiety, depression, and hyperactivity. Emotionally skilled teachers report having less anxiety and burnout, and greater job satisfaction. All of which leads to improved student performance, increased staff morale and productivity, and a positive culture within our schools.
The Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence developed a research-based approach to help our schools, families and community achieve emotional well-being. The RULER approach is both a prevention and intervention program. The RULER approach is built upon the notion that emotions drive psychological and social functioning at both home and school. RULER infuses social and emotional learning into schools by enhancing how administrators lead, educators teach, students learn and families parent. It’s a culture of respect and consideration of each other’s emotions. It is using common consistent language and tools to develop appropriate coping skills when responding to daily life stressors. Furthermore, it is a commitment from the entire school community to create a culture of social/emotional understanding and support. The RULER approach has proven to assist staff and students in becoming more emotionally intelligent which leads to less stress, a greater ability to regulate their emotions, a greater sense of well-being and a physically and emotionally healthier self. Research has shown that RULER boosts academic performance, decreases school problems like bullying, enriches classroom climates, reduces teacher stress and burnout, and enhances teacher instructional practices.