Teaching Beyond Academics: Elevating Soft Skills and Emotional Intelligence

Soft skills and Emotional Intelligence are increasingly recognized as vital components of both professional and personal success. In an effort to equip educators with these essential skills, the Erasmus Learning Academy (ELA) recently hosted its second course in Porto, "Soft Skills and Emotional Intelligence for Teachers and Education Staff."

This course, held from 28/07/2024 to 03/08/2024, brought together participants from across Europe all eager to enhance their communication, leadership, and conflict management abilities, such as Mandy and Stephanie from SMC Cospicua Primary (Malta), Anna and Ela from SP im. k. Zygmunta Augusta w Wasilkowie (Poland), Anna Maria and Claudia from Anna Frank, Istituto Comprensivo di Castelvetro di Modena (Italy), Marketa and Frank from VOS a SPSE Frantiska Krizika (Czech Republich), Kati and Hanna from Rajakylä school (Finland), Nora from Pasaréti Szabó Lőrinc Magyar-Angol Két Tanítási Nyelvű Általános Iskola és Gimnázium (Hungary) and Lorena from I.S. De Felice Olivetti Catania (Italy).

The course began with a focus on communication, where participants explored the art of expressing themselves clearly and effectively. They learned about different communication styles and the importance of adapting their approach to suit various contexts and audiences. This foundation was crucial as it set the stage for further development of listening skills, another essential aspect of effective communication. Through interactive exercises, educators practiced active listening, honing their ability to truly understand and respond to the needs and concerns of others.

Assertiveness was the next topic on the agenda, with participants examining the balance between being confident and respectful in their interactions. The course provided practical strategies for communicating assertively, empowering educators to advocate for themselves and their students in a way that fosters mutual respect. This skill is particularly important in educational settings, where clear and respectful communication is key to creating a positive learning environment.
The course then turned to Social Emotional Learning (SEL), emphasizing its role in fostering emotional intelligence in both educators and students. Participants explored how SEL can be integrated into their teaching to promote self-awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making among students. This holistic approach to education not only supports academic success but also contributes to the overall well-being and development of students.

Leadership and teamwork were also central to the course. Educators reflected on the qualities of effective leaders and explored various leadership styles, recognizing that successful leadership often involves collaboration and the ability to work well in teams. Through group activities and discussions, participants learned how to motivate and guide their students while also building strong, cooperative relationships with colleagues.
Conflict management was another critical topic covered in the course. Educators shared their experiences with conflict and learned strategies for addressing disputes in a constructive manner. By understanding the underlying causes of conflict and applying effective resolution techniques, participants gained tools to turn potential challenges into opportunities for growth and learning.

Non-verbal communication and public speaking rounded out the course, providing participants with the skills to convey their messages confidently and effectively. Educators practiced controlling their body language and using non-verbal cues to enhance their communication. They also engaged in public speaking exercises, which helped them build confidence and improve their ability to present information clearly and persuasively.

Throughout the course, participants had the opportunity to network and share experiences with peers from diverse educational backgrounds. This exchange of ideas enriched the learning experience, highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives in education. The course not only equipped educators with practical skills but also inspired them to bring a renewed sense of empathy, leadership, and communication back to their classrooms.

Discover more about this course here.