16. Why do you need a CDA framework when there is a Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) framework? Won’t it be confusing to schools?

The CDA framework sets out the goal, rationale, evaluation criteria and requirements of CDA to enable the schools to plan for and perhaps work towards reaching a quality standard in the character development of their pupils. The desired outcome of CDA is that every school would have quality character development efforts in place so that every child has access to the means to develop good character during their school career.

The SEL framework provides schools with a conceptual map showing the relationship between the competencies that schools can teach and the student outcomes that can be derived from these efforts.

The SEL framework answers the question of “what to teach for social emotional development” while the CDA framework sets out “how the school can provide a conducive environment and provide for character development in general”.