INTEGRATING SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL SUPPORT INTO DIGITAL LEARNING ECOSYSTEMS: A HOLISTIC EDUCATION APPROACH

Povzetek

The rapid proliferation of digital learning platforms has fundamentally transformed pedagogical landscapes; however, their predominantly cognitive focus has overlooked the social-emotional dimensions critical to learner success. This study investigates the extent to which social-emotional learning (SEL) support can be effectively integrated into digital learning ecosystems and examines its impact on student academic performance, wellbeing, engagement, and emotional resilience. Using a mixed-methods design, data were collected from 1,240 students across 18 educational institutions between 2019 and 2023. Quantitative instruments included validated SEL composite scales, Academic Performance Indices (API), Digital Engagement Indices (DEI), Student Wellbeing Scores (SWS), and Emotional Resilience Indices (ERI). Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Findings reveal a significant positive correlation (r = 0.81, p < 0.001) between SEL integration levels and academic performance, with fully integrated platforms yielding consistently superior outcomes across all measured parameters. Engagement outcomes rose by 38.4% among learners on fully integrated platforms, while emotional resilience improved by 41.7%. The study contributes an empirically grounded framework for embedding holistic SEL support within digital ecosystems and underscores the necessity of systemic, technology-mediated approaches to whole-child education.