We need more emotional intelligence in schools

Even in schools, emotional intelligence (EI) is a fundamental concept for the well-being and success of students. It not only affects their social skillsThe relational core of emotional competence When we talk abo... More but also their academic performance. Understanding and managing one’s own emotions, as well as recognizing and respecting those of others, are essential skills. In Italy, as in many other parts of the world, the importance of interpersonal and intrapersonal intelligence is being rediscovered in schools—not only to improve the school environment but also to promote the development of more aware and responsible citizens.

The situation in Italian schools

The level of emotional intelligence in Italian schools varies greatly across the country. Some institutions have already integrated programs to enhance EI into their educational practices, such as EQ Students, an international project supporting the development of emotional skills in school-aged children (6-15 years), with Fondazione Patrizio Paoletti as its Italian partner.

However, other schools still focus exclusively on traditional academic skills. This approach can be limiting because it overlooks the importance of emotional and social skills for students’ personal and professional growth, along with the parallel development of empathyEmpathy is a fundamental skill that allows us to connect wit... More, self-awarenessIl termine autoconsapevolezza si riferisce primariamente all... More, and self-determination.

It is therefore crucial that schools adopt a more inclusive and holistic approach, focusing not only on knowledge but also on “knowing how to be.”

An optimal choice: inclusive teaching and global thinking

To foster a more empathetic, positive, and collaborative learningIl termine apprendimento - con i sinonimi imparare, assimila... More environment—where sharing, healthy interdependence, and eudaimonia support academic success—it is necessary to implement inclusive teaching and encourage global thinking.

Inclusive teaching aims to engage all students, regardless of their differences, creating a context in which everyone feels valued and part of the group. Global thinking, on the other hand, encourages students to consider their experiences and knowledge from a broader perspective, developing empathy and understanding toward diverse cultures and realities.

One example of this combination is the implementation of intercultural projects, where students collaborate on global topics, learning not only academic content but also the importance of cooperationThe silent force that holds human groups together Cooperatio... More and mutual respect. These projects can be further enriched by activities that promote dialogueDialogue: When Words Become Relationship Dialogue is one of ... More and reflection on emotions, helping students develop greater emotional awareness.

The teacher’s central role: becoming a mentor

In this context, the teacher’s role becomes crucial. A teacher is not just a transmitter of knowledge but a mentor who guides and supports students in their emotional and cognitive development. To do this, teachers must be trained not only in disciplinary skills but also in emotional competencies. Training and professional development courses in emotional intelligence can equip teachers with the tools to recognize and manage emotional dynamics in the classroom, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Emotional intelligence can also intersect with artificial intelligenceArtificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing field of s... More to enhance teacher training. In this regard, Fondazione Patrizio Paoletti, together with New Life For Children, has implemented Teachers Outreach, a global platform for the professional development of educators worldwide, based on the PedagogyTo understand what pedagogy is, let’s provide a definition... More of the Third Millennium. By leveraging AI in education, Teachers Outreach ensures high-quality, personalized, and innovative learning, addressing emotional illiteracy regardless of geography, age, or gender.

Educational strategies and practices for emotional intelligence

To integrate emotional intelligence into the school curriculum, various strategies and educational practices can be adopted. One such approach is participatory and dialogical lessons, where students are encouraged to express their opinions and engage in open discussion. This not only fosters autonomy and healthy protagonism within their educational journey but also helps develop key skills for managing interpersonal relationships.

Other strategies include the use of meditation and mindfulness techniques to help students manage stressWhat is stress? From a clinical perspective, stress is a phy... More and develop greater self-awareness. Additionally, creative activities, theater or circus workshops can be used to explore and understand emotions in a practical and engaging way.

Toward an emotionally intelligent school

There are numerous active projects that can serve as models for developing emotional intelligence in schools. Among them, peer education programs allow older or more experienced students to help their younger peers navigate the emotional and social challenges of school life. These programs not only promote emotional intelligence but also strengthen the sense of community and encourage mutual support within the school environment.

Fondazione Patrizio Paoletti also promotes emotional intelligence in Italian high schools through the “Prefigurare il Futuro” protocol, designed to enhance well-being and train the inner resources of students, teachers, parents, and the entire educational community, particularly fostering resilienceWhat is meant by resilience? According to the American Psych... More and self-awareness.

Integrating emotional intelligence into schools is not just an educational choice—it is a necessity to prepare students to live in a complex and constantly evolving society. Through inclusive teaching, teacher involvement, and the implementation of targeted projects, it is possible to create learning environments that educate not only the mind but also the heart. This approach improves students’ well-being and fosters a more empathetic and collaborative school community, ready to face the challenges of the future.