Emotional Intelligence
Various different actors in higher education institutions have emphasised the value of human qualities and behaviours in enhancing the wellbeing of students within the teaching and learning environment. Students have focused on a need for these qualities in University staff that are directly involved in their academic journey at the institution, such as personal tutors, seminar tutors and lecturers. In addition, research has cited the importance in self-care, treating oneself with kindness and compassion; thus, demonstrating these very same attributes in relationships adopted with others at University but directed towards the self.
Directing care by employing soft skills, such as approachability, empathy, and showing a capacity for listening and communicating effectively in the teaching and learning environment can help improve student wellbeing. Whereas, a lack of human skills will in most instances lead to sub-optimal student wellbeing.
The following pedagogical practices have been derived from approximately 26 interviews, conducted by the Wellbeing Project Officers, who aimed to gain an insight on teaching strategies from different academics across various faculties at the University of Warwick.
