The pandemic caused by COVID-19 is unprecedented in our lifetimes. None of us has lived through anything quite like this as an unknown enemy has effectively changed the world we live in and caused us to look for new ways to communicate, keep in touch with friends and family and do our jobs.
‘An all-day-in-pajamas-day aka stressed’ from http://www.eltpics.com @aClilToClimb
Recently there have been discussions about certain of the natural emotions which have arisen due to the virus. On social media there have been posts regarding certain feelings and the fact that they cause stress so we need to give them up. While that may be true, emotions are not always something that can be changed simply by willing them away. For me, I feel that what is needed at the moment is compassion for others and understanding of the myriad of emotions that they are going through. As we don’t know others’ situations and how they are dealing with the so-called ‘new normal’, offering help or an understanding ear seems to me to be the way forward.
‘Emotional Sand’ from http://www.eltpics.com @aClilToClimb
As educators we have often read about and discussed emotional intelligence. The definition of this term includes recognising and managing emotions within ourselves and others. We can’t know what another person feels exactly or understand why they react a certain way to a situation that is completely out of our control. But by talking to them or offering to be there if they need help, we can begin to work on the fear and anxiety some may be experiencing which may well be caused by the feeling of having no control over the current situation. The same goes for our students and learners, in order to help them move forward, we need to determine what may be stopping them and address that. Telling someone not to feel something they feel is a bit like telling them not to think of a pink elephant causing them to imagine such a creature in most instances.
‘Smiling Faces’ from http://www.eltpics.com @sandymillin
For these reasons, I would put empathy at the top of the list when dealing with colleagues and learners. If we can put ourselves into someone else’s shoes, even for a short time, we may begin to see things through their eyes and understand what is truly going on. Then we can begin to take the steps to help them change negative thoughts into more positive ones.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/emotional-intelligence
https://www.healthline.com/health/emotional-intelligence#components
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/emotional-intelligence-eq.htm
Learner as Teacher 