Balancing the Scales: Why Emotional Intelligence should be as valued as Academics
My little brother is the smartest person I know! I wouldn’t be surprised if his IQ is as high as Einstein’s. His EQ, on the other hand, could use some improvement.
He is a scientist, and he always has the right answer to any question, whether it’s about mathematics, physics, or biology. However, when he took me to the dentist this one time, I started crying out of fear of dying (I know, I can be pretty dramatic), and when I asked for reassurance, his response - while accurate - was far from comforting: “I don’t think you will die, but if you do, we [family] will be the ones suffering because we lost you. You won’t feel anything because you’ll be dead. Now stop crying!”
I believe this interaction perfectly highlights the gap between intellectual intelligence (IQ) and emotional intelligence (EQ), and why it’s crucial for us as educators and caregivers to value both in our education systems.
EQ is something we often hear about, but it’s not always clear what it really means. For those of you who might not yet have heard about EQ, let me explain. Imagine you’re stuck in an elevator and need to stay calm so you don’t scare the child who got stuck with you, or you’re trying to understand what your best friend is feeling after losing their job. EQ is all about being able to recognise, understand, manage, and use emotions effectively.
Think of it as having a toolkit with five essential tools: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. These tools are crucial for navigating both personal and professional landscapes. They help us manage our own behaviour, smoothly navigate social interactions, and make decisions that lead to positive outcomes. So, whether you’re trying to stay composed during a stressful moment or connect deeply with others, EQ plays a vital role!
As you read this, you might be thinking, “Ok, but what are the benefits of incorporating EQ into schools’ curricula? And how can we integrate it?” Well, research has shown that students with high emotional intelligence tend to perform better academically. A study by the University of Cambridge found that students who participate in EQ programs showed improved academic performance, reduced anxiety, and better social interactions. Teaching EQ helps students develop resilience - a critical trait for overcoming challenges and maintaining mental health.
In Europe, EQ has gained significant attention within education systems because of its positive impact on students’ well-being, academic performance, and social skills.
The Step by Step program focuses on developing children’s emotional and social competencies from an early age. It was established in the Netherlands in 1999. The program includes activities and lessons that help children recognize and manage their emotions, develop empathy, and improve social interactions. Evaluations of the program show that children who participate demonstrate better emotional regulation, increased empathy, and improved social skills. Teachers also report a more positive classroom environment.
The RULER approach was developed by the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, and it has been implemented in various schools in Spain. RULER teaches students to Recognize, Understand, Label, Express, and Regulate emotions. The program includes training for teachers, lesson plans for students, and activities for families to practise emotional skills. Studies have shown that social-emotional learning (SEL) training improves teaching and learning practices and the classroom environments in which they take place.
But the benefits of incorporating EQ into education extend beyond better grades. It’s about preparing students for life! Emotional intelligence helps them build stronger relationships, navigate social complexities, and make informed decisions. Teachers have also reported experiencing less burnout.
I remember my primary school teacher very dearly, she is actually the reason why I became an educator. However, I also recall being apprehensive about answering questions in class for fear of being mocked or harshly judged by other teachers. I held in the anger I felt towards injustices I witnessed, afraid of being punished for speaking out. Therefore, I try my best to make my classroom a safe environment for my students. Small things can make a difference, such as not telling them they are wrong when they (adorably) mispronounce a word, while still correcting them. Taking the shame out of making mistakes is important because we all make them, right? For example, if a child tells me they’re more bigger than their friend, I might say, “Oh? You are taller than James? I am taller than you, but shorter than Ms. Parker!” - this way, they hear the correct version without being told they are wrong.
Educators play a crucial role in modelling and teaching emotional intelligence. One effective strategy is integrating social-emotional learning programs into the daily curriculum. SEL programs help students develop the skills needed for emotional intelligence through structured lessons and activities. Teachers can also incorporate mindfulness practices to help students develop self-awareness and self-regulation. Encouraging group activities and cooperative learning can enhance empathy and social skills. For instance, activities like group discussions, role-playing, and peer mentoring provide practical opportunities for students to practise and develop their EQ.
Encouraging reflective practices and providing opportunities for students to practise empathy and social skills through group activities and discussions can significantly enhance their emotional intelligence. As we have already seen, emotional intelligence is a significant predictor of academic success and general mental health. By prioritising EQ in the educational system, we are not just enhancing students’ academic abilities but also equipping them with essential life skills that will benefit them long beyond their school years.
While intellectual intelligence is vital, emotional intelligence is equally important in fostering well-rounded, successful individuals. It’s time to balance the scales and give emotional intelligence the attention it deserves in our education system.
