The Focused Student: Dimensions of learning; the emotional EQ
We often view learning as one dimensional. Academics is viewed as learning a base of information, which serves as a foundation for getting to the wider base of information and so on. But what we as teachers, parents and society often forget is that learning is not just about acquiring a certain level of knowledge. There is a social and emotional side to learning.
The growth mindset we spoke about last month is part of the emotional side. This leads us to another educational concept called emotional intelligence, better known as EQ, or one’s emotional IQ.
EQ has been around for a while, primarily as a business and leadership tool because research has shown that people with a higher EQ often make better employees and leaders.
So what is EQ?
The short answer is that EQ is the ability to recognize our own feelings and those of others (read people properly). EQ helps us stay motivated, manage emotions in ourselves and our relationships and helps us get along better with other people in a wider variety of life situations.
EQ influences our ability to learn as well as our ability to cope socially.
Studies have shown children or students with a high EQ do better on standardized tests. They are able to “read” or interpret questions better. These children/students also understand the “unwritten” curriculum better. These are the kids who intuitively know, without being explicitly told, that as a freshman you don’t walk through the senior area. They also understand that their time will come when they become seniors. This reduces conflict and stress and promotes social success. High-EQ schools tend to be safer, with less conflict, and students feel more comfortable. There tends to be an atmosphere of greater collaboration at such schools. This can create a “growth mindset” because the student feels more accepted and supported.
The best part of EQ is that it can be developed. It is malleable and you can play an active role in helping your child expand his or her EQ. IQ tends to be fairly static; if you had a 110 IQ as a high school student, you’re probably close to 110 IQ as an adult. EQ, on the other hand, can be boosted through self-awareness, observation, modeling, mentoring and practice.
We as parents, teachers and community can help young people grow their EQ. Helping students become more emotionally aware and demonstrating techniques for managing emotions isn’t yet a subject in school, but it could be one day.
Every student’s life will have highs and lows, from first dates to breakups, from getting a pet to losing one. Helping students manage the emotions that accompany these sentimental and other life events enables them to respond and adapt to an ever-widening range of circumstances in ways that will serve them well.
There are many books and Internet resources that provide specific guidance that can help you help your child boost their EQ.
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ROBERT FRANK is the executive director of the Hillside School and Learning Center in La Cañada. He holds a master’s of science degree in special education and has more than 40 years of teaching experience. His column appears on the last Thursday of each month. He can be reached at frank@hillsideforsuccess.org.
