Social Awareness
“The power of education extends beyond the development of skills we need for economic success. It can contribute to nation-building and recognition.”
– Nelson Mandela
SOCIAL AWARENESS: The ability to understand the perspectives of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds, cultures, & contexts.
Social Awareness includes the capacity to feel compassion for others, understand broad historical and social norms of behavior in different settings, and recognize family, school, and community resources and supports. Students can navigate relationships better if they can take on other perspectives, appreciate diversity, recognize others’ emotions, demonstrate empathy, show respect towards others, and understand how to read common body language and facial expressions. The use of role play or “walking a mile in someone else’s shoes” often helps students to understand differing perspectives and life experiences, such as:
- Seek other perspectives
- Identify other people’s strenths
- Practice empathy and compassion
- Show concern for others’ feelings
- Practice gratitude
- Discover and realize diverse social norms
- Recognize situational demands and opportunities
- Understand the influences of organizations/systems on behavior
“When we consciously plan the cognitive, social, and emotional aspects of learning in combination with academic learning, we can have the greatest positive impact on student performance.”
– Karen Pittman
Social Awareness
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Social Awareness by Students
Students share their perspectives on the importance of social awareness in relationships and how they learned to build their social…Social Awareness Grade & Classroom Ideas
Social awareness requires educators to acknowledge, value, support, and respond to the cultural values, traditions, communication, learning styles, contributions, and…References:
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Disclosure Statement: These tools are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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