Experiences of transformational leaders practising social-emotional learning in a time of crisis

Abstract

This research focused on investigating how adopting a Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) approach to leadership influenced the learning culture in low-decile Limpopo, South African schools amid the challenges posed by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis. The study employed the Head, Heart, and Hands Transformational Leadership Model as its theoretical framework. Through workshops with school leaders, the researchers gathered the leaders experiences and insights, revealing the difficulties faced by them during the pandemic and the strategies they employed to ensure continuous learning. The study underscores the significance of SEL in fostering mindfulness, self-mastery, and effective communication and relationship-building skills. The researchers recommend providing SEL training for school leaders and integrating SEL into teacher training programmes. Ultimately, the study contributes to advancing both theory and practice in the realm of SEL leadership, particularly in crises.