There is a growing consensus that teachers? social-emotional competence (T-SEC) is crucial for their own well-being and students? social and emotional learning (SEL). However, the literature lacks comprehensive, psychometrically sound, and practical measures of T-SEC. Moreover, the existing literature on T-SEC is predominantly grounded in Western countries, leaving this issue largely unexplored elsewhere. This study aims to introduce the Multidimensional Assessment of Teacher Social-Emotional Competence (MATSEC), measuring T-SEC across all five domains of the CASEL framework, with an additional domain focused on social awareness for equity and inclusion. This six-dimensional, self-reported scale was collaboratively developed by a team of East Asian researchers and practitioners through an iterative process of item generation and revisions based on expert reviews, cognitive interviews, and pilot testing. We evaluated various psychometric properties of this scale using data from school teachers in China and Korea (N?=?859). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis suggested a second-order factor structure involving a single overall T-SEC factor indicated by six sub-domain factors: (1) self-awareness, (2) emotion management, (3) social awareness for student well-being, (4) social awareness for equity and inclusion, (5) relationship skills, and (6) responsible decision-making. The overall scale and all subscales showed high internal consistency and concurrent validity, demonstrating significant correlations with teachers? various well-being outcomes, self-efficacy, and perceived school climate. Measurement invariance testing supported cross-country equivalence of the scale. We hope the MATSEC contributes to the emerging literature on T-SEC in East Asia, with the potential to be tested and applied in diverse educational contexts around the world.
Congratulations to Prof. LOU W.Q. Vivian on being recognized among the Healthy Ageing 50 Leaders by the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021?2030). The Healthy Ageing 50 highlights people from every region and sector?government, civil society, academia, and business?whose work is measurably improving the lives, rights, and well-being of older people and advancing the Decade?s priorities: combating ageism, fostering age-friendly environments, and expanding access to integrated and long-term care. Honourees are profiled on the Decade platform to showcase approaches with proven impact and potential to scale, and to catalyse collaboration across countries and disciplines?reflecting Dr. LOU?s leadership in ageing and longevity.
Learn more: https://www.decadeofhealthyageing.org/topics-initiatives/other-initiatives/healthy-ageing-50#anchor_two
Prof. LAW Y.W. Frances was admitted as a Fellow of the Academy by the Hong Kong Academy of Social Work. The Fellowship is a senior professional honour that recognizes social work leaders with sustained, exemplary contributions to the profession and the community. Fellows are peer?acknowledged for their professional excellence and leadership, ethical standing, impact on practice and policy, scholarship and education, and dedicated service. As a Fellow, Prof. Law is part of a community expected to set standards for the field, champion continuing professional development, mentor the next generation, and help advance the Academy?s mission to strengthen social work quality and public trust in Hong Kong. This recognition affirms her leadership and broad impact across research, practice, and community engagement.
Learn more: https://academy.hkswa.org.hk/zh-HK/membership/information/fellow/