Social-Emotional Learning in Inclusive Sport: Insights From Observational Research of Inclusive High School Sport Teams

• In Event: Development of Social Emotional Learning With Students in Teams and Peer Relations

Abstract

The present study explored SEL as it naturally occurs on inclusive high school sport teams and examined the value of such teams as platforms for students with and without disabilities to access SEL opportunities and activities. Forty-four observations were conducted with four Special Olympics Unified Sports® teams. Results demonstrate that, through inclusive sport, students utilize skills in all five CASEL SEL competency domains. Interconnections between the domains were also observed, primarily for social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. These findings suggest there are many organic instances of SEL in the inclusive sport context. This study presents a unique approach to investigating SEL within sports and expands knowledge about contexts in which all students can develop SEL skills.

Authors

• Holly Jacobs, University of Massachusetts - Boston

• Margaret Mackin, University of Massachusetts - Boston

• Natalie Gwendolyn May, University of Massachusetts - Boston

• Megan McCarthy, University of Massachusetts - Boston

• Michael Lancaster, University of Massachusetts - Boston

• Gary Siperstein, University of Massachusetts - Boston