Some key takeaways that I had from the CASEL framework regarding responsible decision making included the ability to make decisions with an open mind, identifying solutions to a problem, understanding the consequences of ones actions, and analyzing facts before making a decision. As I continued my research outside of the CASEL framework there seemed to be four key characteristics that make up students ability to make responsible and sound decisions. These four areas were open-mindedness, integrity, making judegments based on valid information (data, facts etc.), and the ability to find solutions to problems. I hope to continue to help my students in these four main areas. I am currently encouraging students to make sound decisions by taking classroom suggestions (written students responses), allowing students to help determine classroom rules and procedures, giving choice in assignment (when possible), brainstorming ideas together as a whole group and discussing pro/cons and possible outcomes. Lastly, we have regular discussions about the consequences of our actions (both positive and negative). I have been able to incorporate some of the concepts from a book I just finished called Atomic Habits to reinforce the effect of small positive choices over time.
