ED 462 Teaching with Heart: Trauma, Trust & SEL

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Explores trauma-informed, trust-centered SEL practices that support safe, inclusive, and responsive learning environments for students and educators.

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Bachelor of Applied Science in Elementary Education Program, or instructor approval.
Maximum number of credits course can be taken for: 3

Student Learning Outcomes:

Explain foundations of trauma-informed education and SEL principles.
Apply strategies to build regulation, resilience, and belonging.
Use assessment and reflection tools to guide responsive instruction.
Collaborate with families and agencies for cohesive supports.
Reflect on well-being, identity, and the role of empathy.

Content Outline

Foundations of Trauma-Informed and SEL Practices
- Core principles of trauma-informed education
- Understanding the connection between trauma, brain development, and learning
- Overview of social-emotional learning (SEL) frameworks and competencies
Building Regulation, Resilience, and Belonging
- Strategies for co-regulation and emotional safety in the classroom
- Supporting resilience through relationships and predictable routines
- Creating inclusive spaces that foster trust and belonging
Responsive Instruction through Assessment and Reflection
- Identifying student needs through observation and SEL assessment tools
- Using reflection and feedback to adjust instruction
- Integrating trauma-informed approaches into academic and behavioral supports
Collaboration with Families and Community Partners
- Partnering with families to support student well-being
- Coordinating with counselors, specialists, and community agencies
- Maintaining confidentiality and ethical communication practices
Educator Well-Being, Empathy, and Professional Identity
- Reflecting on self-awareness and compassion fatigue
- Practicing self-care and boundary-setting as an educator
- Cultivating empathy and cultural humility in professional practice