Learning patterns and social-emotional learning of balkan students in secondary education: a cross-cultural discussion

Introduction. In the present study, components related to learning patterns and socio-emotional learning are measured in a sample of adolescents from the Balkan Peninsula in order to understand the relationship between these two constructs. Method. High school students from Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo (N = 240) completed surveys designed to measure learning patterns and social-emotional competencies. Participants responded to a modified version of Vermunt's Inventory of Learning Styles (ILS) and the Panorama’s SEL Measures survey. Results. The results show that the responses of high school students in the Balkan peninsula are organized in a three-pattern structure: the first factor is a saturation of the components of the MD and AD patterns; the second factor groups the components of the RD and UD patterns. The third factor is the so-called passive pattern and the result of the combination of several beliefs (conceptions and learning orientations). Moreover, the results suggest that there is an overt connection between learning patterns and social and emotional learning and its interpersonal and intrapersonal competencies. Discussion and Conclusion. The connection between learning patterns and social-emotional learning seems to be relevant for improving future learning strategies and the development of healthier relationships. Moreover, the results suggest that Educational Psychology researchers and educators must understand and work together in the design of learning and teaching models that go beyond the acquisition of knowledge and skills.