Topic 2 Evidence based interventions and policies

You can design an intervention by using an evidence based framework that has been shown effective and can be very helpful in the design of behavioural, social and emotional interventions

The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) Framework for designing interventions on developing emotional and social learning (SEL).

CASEL Framework: aims to develop 5 social and emotional competences of students’:

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    Self-awareness
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    Self-management
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    Social awareness
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    Relationship skills
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    Responsible decision-making
Casel, 2017

Benefits of implementing the CASEL Framework

Academic Benefits:

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    Increase in overall grades
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    Higher attendance rates

Social, emotional and behavioural benefits:

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    Better coping with emotional stress, development of problem solving skills, positive self-image, better social behaviour
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    Avoiding peer pressure to engage in harmful activities, decreased conduct problems and substance abuse

The CASEL organisation has developed a guide with 3 practical exercises to help you practice social and emotional learning in classrooms, schools, and other educational settings

https://schoolguide.casel.org/uploads/2018/12/CASEL_SEL-3-Signature-Practices-Playbook-V3.pdf

The 3 SEL Practices:

Or routines, or  rituals, to build a sense of community. E.g.:

  • Morning circles
  • Smile warmly and greet each person
  • Whole-group greeting activities

Interactive & reflective experiences. E.g.:

  • Think, Ink, Pair, Share (silent time to reflect; time to write; partner discussions; close with a group share out)
  • Mindful Minute Brain Break (a calming activity, promoting focus and readiness to learn)

Reflective of the learning- shows support and a sense of accomplishment E.g.:

  • Something I learned today…
  • Something I’ll do as a result of this session is…
  • Something I still question…

Evidence based policies

1

It is important to check the national policies of your country on how to develop an intervention or what is considered acceptable content for an intervention at a school or educational setting.

2

You can also develop certain policies relevant to your educational setting to show your commitment to the mental health of your students.

3

A school’s (or any educational setting) mental health policy is a document that explains the values, principles and the strategies the school will implement to support its students on mental health issues and promote student wellbeing.

If you want to develop your MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBING POLICY, consider the below:

Involve students & parents

Consult pupils, parents or carers in creating this policy

Be clear

Make the policies clear and be transparent with how you develop them

Review & Update

Schedule a yearly meeting to review or update your policies

Display the policies

Display your mental health and wellbeing policies in your school e.g. reception area, common rooms or website

Consider the answers to the below questions:

  • Does your school have a mental health policy?
  • Does it address the mental health of pupils?
  • If you don’t have a separate mental health policy, do your related policies sufficiently promote mental health?
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