One term of empathy lessons in schools could lead to positive changes in pupil behaviour and emotional literacy, a study suggests.
Data was gathered from 900 pupils in six countries including the UK, who completed a video-led course that aims to increase empathy in students aged from five to 18.
It was developed by a firm founded by former science teacher Ed Kirwan.
Pupils are shown thought-provoking films, and then engage in around 30 minutes of activities and discussions about the issues raised.
Analysis, supported by Cambridge University’s Faculty of Education, indicated a positive impact on students’ behaviour and emotional literacy within ten weeks.
Teachers rated pupils’ empathy, behaviour and other characteristics on a scale of one to ten before the programme began, and five and ten weeks later.
The average empathy score rose from 5.55 to 7, while average behaviour scores increased from 6.52 to 7.89.
Riots show ‘need’ for empathy
The study comes after Professor Becky Francis, chief executive of the Education Endowment Foundation, prepares to lead the government’s curriculum and assessment review.
Schools have reported increased struggles with behaviour issues since the pandemic, leading to record levels of suspensions and rising levels of exclusions.
Mr Kirwan said: “The programme’s success lies in teaching students to celebrate difference, which changes their wellbeing and behaviour.
“There’s never an excuse for poor behaviour, but often a reason, which greater mutual understanding can potentially address.
“I think the social unrest we have seen in Britain this summer shows how urgently we need more empathy across society.
‘Empathy starts with education’
Dr Helen Demetriou, a specialist in empathy education at Cambridge University, said: “The findings show that a fairly simple, film-based programme can raise pupils’ empathy levels, enhancing their understanding of themselves, others and global issues.
“That supports a more complete learning experience, developing social and emotional skills that we know contribute to improved behaviour and more engaged learning.”
The firm that developed the course, Empathy Studios, defines empathy as the “skill to understand others and the ability to create space for someone to reveal their authentic self while reserving judgement”.
The government has been urged to convene a teaching working group following riots seen across the UK this summer, Tes revealed earlier this month.
“It won’t solve everything, but it is the foundation for solutions, and it starts with education,” Mr Kirwan said.
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