Lesson 4. Developing emotional intelligence and self-reflection
pharos July 28, 2026
Case Scenario
Samira is a community educator in an adult learning centre. She finds herself avoiding one particular learner who often questions her instructions. After a few weeks, Samira takes time to reflect and realises the learner’s behaviour reminds her of a difficult past experience. She discusses it with a colleague, gains perspective, and begins to rebuild trust with the learner through small, respectful conversations.
Reflective prompts:
• Have I ever reacted strongly to a learner without understanding why?
• What experiences might be shaping my responses in the classroom?
• Who can I turn to for support or perspective when I feel triggered?
Activity: The Reflection Wheel
Purpose:
• To help learners reflect on how different aspects of their mental health may influence their learning experience in a safe, visual and self-directed way.
Materials Needed:
• One printed blank Reflection Wheel per participant (or draw your own)
• Coloured pens or pencils
Template:
• Draw a large circle and divide it into 5 or 6 equal slices like a pie chart.
• Label each segment with: Energy, Focus, Self-confidence, Support network, Emotion, Motivation and Sense of belonging
• Inside each segment, draw concentric rings numbered from 1 (centre) to 5 (outer edge).
• Learners colour each segment to show where they currently are.