The Role of Emotional Intelligence in the EFL Classroom: Reflections of EFL Teachers

Abstract

Several studies have suggested that teachers' Emotional Intelligence (EI) is essential for teacher effectiveness. Also, there has been increasing recognition of the importance of social-emotional competencies to students' learning and academic achievement. This paper sheds light on the role of EI training in the EFL classroom by examining and analysing several research articles related to EI with particular emphasis on the role of EI in EFL contexts. The reviewed literature on the topic reveals the importance of EI for EFL teachers and students and the need for providing training courses for EFL teachers to help them understand and manage their feelings and the feelings of students, parents, and administrators.

Keywords: Emotional intelligence, EFL teachers, language learning, professional development, teaching English