This session will address action research on implementing instruction in social emotional learning in upper elementary classrooms with students with learning disabilities (LD). The presenter will describe classroom instruction and decision proceses. Results of this research suggest improvement in social skills related to communication, responsibility, empathy and self-control following 8 months of weekly lessons focusing on the four areas addressed. Growth was perceived by students, parents, and the two teachers as measure by the SSIS and curriculum-based measures (CBM). Findings suggest students with learning disabilities benefit from explicit instruction in communication, responsibility, empathy and self-control.

Learning Outcomes/Next Steps

Educators and instructional partners/leaders will:

1. Understand effects of data-based SEL instruction,
2. Describe effective SEL instruction for students with LD, and
3. Learn skills to conduct action research on SEL in their classrooms.