Back-to-Basics

Reforming education is not a new concept; however, today’s educational demands extend beyond merely raising standards or fostering competition. In an age dominated by technology, where the internet has transformed our access to knowledge, we face a paradox: while we advance intellectually, we risk losing sight of fundamental human values. Classrooms often become tense environments filled with frustration—not due to a lack of intelligence among students, but because they struggle to navigate their emotional landscapes. Teachers also grapple with regulating the emotional climate in their classrooms and that was one of the catastrophic consequences of Pandemic that world suffered where children witnessed repression of emotions but this is high time to fill life in our classrooms.

Emotional intelligence (EI) plays a crucial role in this landscape. Daniel Goleman defines it as "the capacity for recognizing our own feelings and those of others, for motivating ourselves, and for managing emotions well in ourselves and in our relationships." This definition highlights that EI is distinct from traditional intellectual capacities, which have long dominated educational focus. Many academically successful children may falter in emotional regulation, demonstrating that emotional competence is a separate and equally important aspect of intelligence. In our fast-paced world, where information is abundant and societal pressures are high, emotional intelligence has become increasingly vital for students.

Empathy emerges as a key element of emotional intelligence, allowing us to connect with one another on a deeper level. For children, empathy fosters strong relationships with peers, teachers, and family members while also cultivating a sense of community. This sense of belonging can reduce bullying and conflict within school environments. Furthermore, empathy enables students to manage their own emotions more effectively. By recognising and understanding the feelings of others, they become more attuned to their emotional states, which in turn enhances their self-awareness and self-regulation—two essential components of emotional intelligence.

Teachers play a pivotal role in nurturing emotional intelligence, especially in early childhood education. Peter Salovey and John Mayer, who proposed a comprehensive theory of emotional intelligence in 1990, emphasise the importance of monitoring and regulating one’s feelings and those of others. By modelling empathy and emotional awareness, teachers can significantly impact students’ ability to manage their emotions and interactions. Children are not born with fully developed emotional intelligence; it must be nurtured. In classrooms where emotional intelligence is prioritised, students learn to identify and articulate their feelings, leading to improved communication, fewer behavioural issues, and a more inclusive learning environment.

Developing empathy doesn’t necessitate adding another subject to an already crowded curriculum. Instead, it requires a shift in how teachers approach lessons and interactions with students. Empathy can be seamlessly integrated into daily classroom activities, such as collaborative group projects or discussions about literature that encourage students to consider diverse perspectives. Research has shown that emotional competencies significantly contribute to success in both personal and professional spheres, often more than cognitive abilities alone. This highlights the urgent need to foster emotional skills early, as they play a crucial role in shaping students’ futures.

For students growing up in difficult environments—such as those affected by conflict, poverty, or family instability—empathy and emotional intelligence become essential for survival. In regions like Kashmir, where political unrest has left deep emotional scars, many students disengage from school because they struggle to cope with their emotional burdens. In such contexts, empathetic teachers can be transformative. By listening and acknowledging the emotional weight their students carry, they provide a sense of stability and safety. This connection helps students not only stay in school but also thrive, fostering trust in their ability to manage emotions and succeed.

As society becomes increasingly interconnected, the importance of emotional intelligence and empathy grows. They are no longer mere optional skills; they are essential for cultivating a compassionate and resilient community. Education must evolve to reflect this reality, placing emphasis on emotional growth alongside academic achievement. By embedding empathy into the educational framework, we can empower the next generation with the tools necessary to navigate life's challenges and foster meaningful connections. The aim is to create educational spaces where students learn not only to excel academically but also to care for one another, ultimately laying the groundwork for a more harmonious society.

Saima Bashir, Principal, GD Goenka Public School, Handwara