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How Emotional Intelligence Helps Teachers By Isabel Johnson, The Early Childhood Educator Web Site |
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There's more than one way to be smart, and it comes from the heart, according to Daniel Goleman, Ph.D., author of the popular book, "Emotional Intelligence". In fact, Goleman's theory has ignited discussion about the possibility of emotional intelligence, or "E.Q.", as being at least as important as traditional intellect for human development, success and happiness.
It's about time someone started a major discussion on the value of so-called emotional intelligence: those abilities, attributes and insights connected to our self-knowledge and interpersonal skills. After decades of hearing about I.Q., Goleman finally gives us some fresh ideas about the complex nature of human intelligence, and the role emotions play in our intellectual lives. As many of us have suspected all along, it's not enough to be "smart" in the traditional sense; it helps to have emotional smarts, too. While the book and the terms are new, the theories are not. Goleman's book comes riding on the heels of other important work, produced by such pioneers as psychologists Howard Gardner, (Multiple Intelligence Theory), Robert Sternberg, and Stephen Jay Gould, each of whom have held the idea that this thing we call intelligence is multi-faceted, not easily measurable, and often misunderstood. Many teachers are familiar with the term "multiple intelligences",but the idea that children's emotional intelligence should be nurtured and developed is not as well known. And teachers of young children can use this knowledge to provide children with opportunities and experiences that enhance learning. Activities that may help develop emotional intelligence include: dramatic play, artistic self-expression, conflict resolution coaching, learning about self and feelings, and empathy-building exercises. Any time a child learns to express feelings constructively, emotional development can be enhanced. Emotional intelligence helps teachers, too. Teachers can use their own emotional intelligence to understand children and to do a better job teaching. Take a look at the following list of ideas for using your emotional intelligence as a teacher: Use your empathy: the more understanding you have for children, the less patience you will need. Let them develop their own empathy by helping others and sharing feelings. Share what you love with children. Giving of yourself helps children form an attachment and it's the gift they want most: to be close by sharing important things with you. Use your intuition to inform your decisions as a teacher. Use your sense of what your heart tells you is true to help guide you with children. Be affectionate and openly joyful with children. Teach them that it's okay to express love and good feelings with others. Your interest in them as people affirms and inspires. © 2004 Paideia Press. All rights reserved. Re-printed with permission. |
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