Considering cultural context as an important condition for the successful implementation of social and emotional learning programs in Ukraine

The section examines the impact of cultural context on the implementation of international programs of social and emotional learning in the Ukrainian education system. The importance of adapting such programs to national cultural characteristics in order to achieve the effectiveness of their application in the educational environment is emphasized. Based on the model of cultural dimensions by G. Hofstede, an analysis of the Ukrainian cultural context is conducted. Special attention is paid to highlighting the cultural traditions of Ukraine, such as cordocentrism, collectivism, nurturing spirituality, and the desire for freedom, which were formed under the influence of historical, religious, and socio-economic conditions. It is determined that the cultural context of Ukraine is potentially favorable for the implementation of programs of social and emotional learning, since such programs emphasize the development of empathy, cooperation, and other social and emotional skills, in accordance with the cultural priorities of Ukrainian society.

Empirical research using both primary and secondary data included a comparative analysis of international practices, case studies of the implementation of the social, emotional and ethical learning (SEE Learning) program in Ukraine, and a survey “Cultural Context of the SEE Learning Program in Ukraine” of 43 teachers from 24 educational institutions that have been implementing the SEE Learning program for 5 years regarding ways to adapt the program to the Ukrainian cultural environment.

The study showed that adapting social and emotional learning programs to the specific cultural characteristics of Ukraine contributes to their effective implementation, increases the level of involvement of students and the parent community in the educational process, and promotes the development of students’ social and emotional skills.

Based on the results obtained, recommendations are provided for educators, researchers, and practitioners on considering the cultural context when implementing social and emotional learning programs.