Collaborating for Children's Well-Being: Families, Teachers, and Reserchers Co-Constructing a Framework for Socio-Emotional Learning

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 10
  In Roundtable Session: Culturally Responsive Practices for School/Community Partnerships

Abstract

Aotearoa New Zealand faces persistent challenges with respect to child and adolescent wellbeing and inequality in education outcomes (UNICEF, 2017; MOE, 2008). This has resulted in a need to identify new practices and initiatives within schools that focus more on the wellbeing needs for this age group. International research confirms that both SEL and academic outcomes are significantly improved through school-based SEL programs (e.g. Durlak, et al, 2011). This paper presents initial findings from the first phase of a multi-year project that intertwines participatory action research and Kaupapa Māori principles with the aim of developing a culturally and linguistically sustaining SEL framework that is co-constructed by students, family/ whānau, teachers, iwi (local Māori tribe) and university-based educators.

Authors

• Letitia C. Fickel, University of Canterbury

• Amanda Denston, University of Canterbury

• Rachel Martin, University of Otago

• Veronica Mary O'Toole, University of Canterbury