Research trends and effectiveness analysis of social and emotional learning programs for adult learners: A scoping review

Abstract

Purpose: This scoping review aimed to analyze research trends and the effectiveness of social and emotional learning (SEL) programs for college students and adults to provide foundational data for developing effective SEL programs for nursing students. Methods: Following Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review framework, we systematically searched 11 databases, including RISS, DBpia, KISS, National Assembly Library, PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, ERIC, Ovid, Embase, and PsycINFO, for studies published between 2014 and 2024. We selected studies based on predefined inclusion criteria focusing on SEL programs for college students and adults. Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts and full texts, and included 16 studies in the final analysis. Results: Analysis showed that research on SEL programs has increased steadily since 2020, with 75.0% of studies conducted internationally. Most programs (37.5%) were mindfulness-based interventions delivered through face-to-face instruction, with program durations ranging from 4~80 hours across 3~31 sessions. Key outcomes showed significant improvements in emotional regulation (75.0% of studies), self-efficacy (56.3%), and mindfulness (43.8%). Educational methods predominantly used discussion (81.3%), role-playing (68.8%), and feedback (62.5%). Programs showed particular effectiveness in enhancing emotional awareness, social skills, and interpersonal competence. Conclusion: This scoping review provides comprehensive evidence supporting the effectiveness of SEL programs in improving emotional and social competencies among college students and adults. The findings suggest that incorporating mindfulness-based approaches and interactive teaching methods may be particularly beneficial. These insights can inform the development of tailored SEL programs for nursing students, though further research using more rigorous experimental designs is recommended.