Introduction

Traditionally, education was focussed mainly on development of cognitive skills and intelligence is seen as the primary driver of educational achievement. However, a recent study suggests that non-cognitive skills and Emotional Intelligence (EI) is as crucial in shaping a student’s academic journey as brain intelligence.

About Emotional Intelligence

• It is defined as the ability to recognize, understand, manage, and influence your own emotions and the emotions of others.
• The term was first coined in 1990 by researchers John Mayer and Peter Salovey but was later popularized by psychologist Daniel Goleman.
• A high EI aids in strengthening interpersonal skills, especially related to conflict management and communication and a holistic personality development by developing non-cognitive skills. 
  • E.g. non-cognitive skills such as grit, perseverance, academic interest, and the value attributed to learning etc.

Difference between EQ and IQ

Importance of EI in education 

• Enhanced Academic Performance: Emotionally intelligent students can better manage stress, setbacks, and persevere through challenges. 
  • They exhibit improved focus and problem-solving abilities, enabling them to engage more effectively in the learning process. 
• Positive mental health: Emotionally intelligent students are more likely to exhibit higher self-esteem, lower levels of anxiety and depression, and better overall mental well-being.
• Developing Empathy and Compassion: By understanding and recognizing emotions in themselves and others, students can develop empathy and compassion towards peers. 
  • It helps in creation of a supportive and inclusive learning environment, where students feel valued and understood. 
  • E.g. students taught gender-sensitivity, sharing through experiential learning.
• Nurturing Relationships through Effective Communication: EI equips students with the skills necessary to communicate their thoughts, needs, and emotions effectively. E.g. through debate and elocution competitions 
  • They learn to listen actively, respond empathetically, and resolve conflicts constructively. These skills contribute to positive relationships with peers, teachers, and other members. 
  • E.g. learning to accept own mistakes.
• Ensure Success in the long-term: EI is highly valued by employers and organizations as it helps to manage emotions, collaborate effectively, and exhibit strong interpersonal skills which are critical in the workplace. 
  • E.g. coordination with colleagues, handling work pressures.
• Effective Leadership and Decision-making: Students with EI understand their strengths and weaknesses, possess self-confidence, and can motivate and inspire others. 

Ways to inculcate Emotional intelligence

• Social-emotional learning (SEL) programs: Designed to teach students the skills they need to manage their emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. 
  • E.g. Prerana Experiential Learning School in Vadnagar, Gujarat which is a one-week residential program providing experiential and inspirational learning.
• Collaborative Learning: Group projects, peer tutoring, and team-based activities encourage students to work together, share ideas, and develop social skills aids in improving teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution skills. 
  • E.g. Happiness Curriculum, Delhi.
• Reflection and self-awareness practices: Meditation, journaling helps students develop self-awareness and self-regulation.
• Empowering Teachers and Staff: EI helps teachers in recognizing and responding to emotional needs, creating emotionally safe classrooms, implementing restorative practices instead of punitive measures etc.
• Involving Parents and the Community: To holistically foster EI with practices at home and society.
• Feedback system: Measuring the impact steps taken through Student Surveys, impact on academic performance, and behavioural indicators like peer relationships, discipline referrals etc.
• National Education Policy, 2020 emphasises on developing creative potential of each individual by focussing on social, ethical and emotional dispositions along with foundational and cognitive capabilities. 
  • E.g. multi-disciplinary education with freedom to choose subjects, professional academic and career counselling etc.