Background on Emotional Intelligence:


 

    Recent findings in emotional intelligence support the concept of confluent education which
    holds that effective learning develops in the interaction of cognitive and emotional
    domains. Effective educational practice, then, requires attention to the development of
    many forms of intellect through formal teaching practice as well as through modeling, or
    informal teaching practice. Research indicates that the single most effective predictor of a
    teachers effect on a child is that teacher's ability to model behavior concurrent with the
    ideas and philosophy taught. Finally, current research and practice both firmly demonstrate
    that the growth of ethical or principle driven behavior - a critical component of emotional
    intelligence - develops through numerous informal interactions both in an out of classes.

    Thus, it is critical to emphasize certain cultural values to maintain an environment where
    children can effectively learn in the multiple domains necessary for successful human
    development. Six Seconds refers to this as the Other 3 Rs culture, a practice based on
    intensive focus on respect, resiliency and responsibility. The paradigm is systematized
    through the Self-Science program and is supported through educational practice called
    Principle Based Behavior.

 

    Self awareness:
    One of the basic emotional skills involves being able to recognise feelings and put a name
    on them. It is also important to be aware of the relationship between thoughts, feelings and
    actions. What thought sparked off that feeling? What feeling was behind that action?

    Managing emotions:
    It is important to realise what is behind feelings. Beliefs have a fundamental effect on the
    ability to act and on how things are done. Many people continually give themselves
    negative messages. Hope can be a useful asset. In addition, finding ways to deal with
    anger, fear, anxiety and sadness is essential: learning how to soothe oneself when upset, for
    example. Understanding what happens when emotions get the upper hand and how to gain
    time to judge if what is about to be said or done in the heat of the moment is really the best
    thing to do. Being able to channel emotions to a positive end is a key aptitude.

    Empathy:
    Getting the measure of a situation and being able to act appropriately requires
    understanding the feelings of the others involved and being able to take their perspective. It
    is important to be able to listen to them without being carried away by personal emotions.
    There's a need to be able to distinguish between what others do or say and personal
    reactions and judgements.

   Communicating:
    Developing quality relationships has a very positive effect on all involved. What feelings
    are being communicated to others? Enthusiasm and optimism are contagious as are
    pessimism and negativity. Being able to express personal concerns without anger or
    passivity is a key asset.

    Co-operation:
    Knowing how and when to take the lead and when to follow is essential for effective
    co-operation. Effective leadership is not built on domination but the art of helping people
    work together on common goals. Recognising the value of the contribution of others and
    encouraging their participation can often do more good than giving orders or complaining.
    At the same time, there is a need to take responsibilities and recognise the consequences of
    decisions and acts and follow through on commitments.

    Resolving conflicts:
    In resolving conflicts there is a need to understand the mechanisms at work. People in
    conflict are generally locked into a self-perpetuating emotional spiral in which the
    declared subject of conflict is rarely the key issue. Much of the resolution of conflicts calls
    on using the other emotional skills mentioned here.