Literature transforms human experience and reflects it back to us, and in that reflection we can see our own lives and experiences as part of the larger human experience. Reading, then, becomes a means of self-affirmation, and readers often seek their mirrors in books.
- Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop (1990)
While Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) has been around since the 1960s, Identity Literacy has only recently entered the classroom. This form of literacy allows us to understand and navigate the social and cultural factors that shape our identities. It includes understanding our own identities as well as the identities of others. This includes race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic status, and other factors.
Social and emotional learning (SEL) is developing the self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making skills necessary to succeed in school, work, and life.
Identity literacy and SEL are both essential aspects of personal and social development. However, they differ in some fundamental ways. Identity literacy focuses on understanding and navigating the social and cultural factors that shape our identities. In contrast, SEL focuses on developing the skills to manage emotions, build relationships, and make responsible decisions.
Identity literacy is essential because it helps us better understand ourselves and others. This can lead to greater self-acceptance, empathy, and understanding of others. It can also allow us to navigate complex social situations and build strong relationships.
SEL is also essential because it helps us to develop the skills necessary to succeed in school, work, and life. These skills include managing emotions, building relationships, and making responsible decisions.
Both identity literacy and SEL are essential for personal and social development. They can help us to understand ourselves and others better, to navigate complex social situations, and to build strong relationships. By integrating identity literacy and SEL into the classroom, we can help students to develop the skills and knowledge they need.
Questions to Consider
1. What are your thoughts and concerns about including Identity Literacy in the school curriculum?
2. How can Identity Literacy and Social & Emotional Learning be integrated into the curriculum?
3. What effect will recent attempts to ban books have on teaching Identity Literacy?
