SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING AS A MEANS OF PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT IN PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

The socio-emotional development of the individual is a key aspect of the formation of emotional intelligence, which contributes to the successful adaptation to the requirements of modern society. The article examines the features of socioemotional development, its structural components and significance in the context of educational activities. Particular attention is paid to the definition of such key abilities as empathy, emotional awareness, self-control, stress resistance, interpersonal interaction and the ability to constructively resolve conflicts. The main scientific approaches to the definition of the phenomenon of socio-emotional development are analysed, including the concepts of E. Thorndike, H. Eysenck, D. Goleman and other scientists. The role of socio-emotional learning (SEL) in the modern education system is examined, in particular within the framework of the SEE Learning programme implemented in Ukraine. The article outlines the prospects of using the integrated course “I Explore the World” for the development of emotional intelligence of primary school students. The author gives the examples of practical exercises that contribute to the development of children's skills of empathy, self-regulation, effective communication and decision-making. The results of the study confirm that the integration of socio-emotional learning into the educational process contributes to the harmonious development of the individual, increases motivation to learn and creates conditions for the formation of emotionally mature and socially adapted citizens. Further directions of research are proposed to improve methods of developing socio-emotional competences in children of different ages.