Social and Emotional Learning Across Mesosystems: Parent Perspectives

• In Event: Thursday Roundtable Session 12:40 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Physical Education Mesosystems and Assessment (Table 29)

Abstract

Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility and physical activity-based afterschool programs have been identified as two avenues for learning social and emotional learning (SEL) skills. However, the transfer of SEL skills learned in programs is limited. One issue restricting transfer may be the misalignment between values and messages among a students’ mesosystem. The purpose of this study was to explore parent perspectives of SEL and their child’s use of SEL competencies across settings. Qualitative analysis with 11 parents found two themes, mixed congruence between SEL competencies and family values and limited understanding regarding mesosystems. Parents are supportive of SEL development but may conceptualize concepts differently, limiting transfer. Greater involvement and education among program and community stakeholders is needed for SEL transfer.

Authors

• Victoria Shiver, University of New Mexico

• Kelly L. Simonton, University of Wyoming

• Caitlin Olive, TeamHealth