Recommended reading

Carr, Laurie et al., "Neural mechanisms for empathy in humans: A relay from neural systems for imitation to limbic areas," Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, April 29, 2003.

Abstract: How do we empathize with others? A mechanism according to which action representation modulates emotional activity may provide an essential functional architecture for empathy. The superior temporal and inferior frontal cortices are critical areas for action representation and are connected to the limbic system via the insula. Thus, the insula may be a critical relay from action representation to emotion. We used functional MRI while subjects were either imitating or simply observing emotional facial expressions. Imitation and observation of emotions activated a largely similar network of brain areas. Within this network, there was greater activity during imitation, compared with observation of emotions, in premotor areas including the inferior frontal cortex, as well as in the superior temporal cortex, insula, and amygdala. We understand what others feel by a mechanism of action representation that allows empathy and modulates our emotional content. The insula plays a fundamental role in this mechanism.

Cruikshank, Douglas. "SEL Poll Gets a BIG Response."

Abstract: Poll of educators on the value of SEL.

"Daniel Goleman on Emotional Intelligence" from Edutopia.

Abstract: Discusses the role of teachers, schools, and cooperative learning in readying children for success.

Elias, M.J., & Arnold, H. (2006). The educator’s guide to emotional intelligence and academic achievement: Social-emotional learning in the classroom. CA: Corwin Press.

Abstract: This practical guide encompasses theory, resources, top programs, and descriptions of the ways social-emotional skills can be taught to children. Included are 17 best-practice programs in action, procedures for effective implementation, and insights about the essential components of coordinated social-emotional learning programs and activities.

Read Maurice Elias’ introductory chapter, "The Connections Between Academics and Social-Emotional Learning"

Patti, J., & Tobin, J. (2003). Smart school leaders: Leading with emotional intelligence. Iowa: Kendall Hunt.

Abstract: You can read the the first skill-building chapter of this book, which focuses on the role of the principal as a leader of educational change, by clicking here. The chapter includes activities to help leaders identify their own emotional strengths and weaknesses; translate these general skills into specific examples of SEL competencies needed for school leadership; increase leaders’ self-awareness; and use a problem-based learning tool to solve a real-world problem.

Zins, Joseph E., Michelle R. Bloodworth, Robert P. Weissberg, and Herbert J. Walberg. "The Scientific Base Linking Social and Emotional Learning to School Success." Building Academic Success through Social and Emotional Learning: What Does the Research Say? edited by Joseph Zins, Roger Weissberg, Margaret Wang and Herbert J. Walberg. April 2004.

Abstract: The first chapter from the book Building Academic Success on Social and Emotional Learning. The relationship between SEL and academic performance is discussed, and the academic outcomes achieved through various SEL interventions are summarized.