INNOVATIVE CLASSROOM STRATEGIES TO ENHANCE SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE IN EFL STUDENTS
Abstract
In the context of globalized education, developing not only linguistic but also social competencies has become essential for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. This article explores innovative classroom strategies aimed at enhancing the social intelligence of EFL students in Uzbekistan. Social intelligence — the ability to understand, manage, and effectively navigate social situations — plays a critical role in successful communication and cultural adaptability. The paper examines practical methods such as collaborative learning, role-play, digital storytelling, and project-based tasks that foster empathy, cooperation, and interpersonal awareness. Drawing on qualitative classroom observations and feedback from both students and teachers, the study identifies which techniques are most effective in promoting social interaction and emotional understanding among learners. The findings suggest that integrating social intelligence-focused activities into language instruction not only improves communicative competence but also equips students with valuable life skills for intercultural communication and collaboration in real-world contexts.
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