Applied studies on SES measurement and development
These studies use existing conceptual frameworks for understanding social and emotional skills (SES) as tools to measure and report on SES across international populations.
The assessment tools developed in these studies were not subjected to the same level of validity testing as the measurement tools, but they show how research institutions are trying to understand SES in adolescents and adults across cultures.
These studies provide several insights:
- how SES can be conceptualized (through comprehensive competency frameworks);
- how competency frameworks have been used to measure SES in adolescents and adults and across socio-demographic, educational, and professional contexts;
- how these frameworks and the measurement tools developed from them have been used to understand the impact of interventions that target SES development.
See our Methodology section for more details on how and why we selected these studies.
OECD Study on Social and Emotional Skills (OECD-SSES)
An international skills evaluation that aims to identify the current state of students’ social and emotional skills and characteristics of environments.
SES Measured
- conscientiousness
- emotional stability
- extraversion
- agreeableness
- openness to experience
Users
- communities, families, educators
- policy-makers
Find out more about the OECD Study on Social and Emotional Skills.
Foundations for Young Adult Success
A developmental framework that portrays what children and adolescents (ages 3 to 22) need beyond educational attainment to be prepared for adulthood.
SES Measured
- self-regulation
- knowledge and skills
- mindsets
- values
Users
- educators, parents, community organizations
- policy-makers
Find out more about the Foundations for Young Adult Success.
Skills Towards Employment and Productivity (STEP) Survey
Assesses the skills of urban-based adults to help policy-makers align skills and work opportunities.
SES Measured
- conscientiousness
- emotional stability
- extraversion
- agreeableness
- openness to experience
- grit
- hostile bias
- decision-making
Users
- policy-makers
- employers
Find out more about the Skills Towards Employment and Productivity Survey.
Key Soft Skills for Cross-Sectoral Youth Outcomes
An international evaluation that identifies specific social and emotional skills that could be developed to promote positive outcomes for youth.
SES Measured
- self-control
- positive self-concept
- social skills
- communication
- higher-order thinking skills
Users
- youth workers, employment agencies
- The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
Find out more about the Key Soft Skills for Cross-Sectoral Youth Outcomes.
FSC Partners
Any omissions in fact or interpretation remain the sole responsibility of The Conference Board of Canada. The findings do not necessarily reflect the views of the Future Skills Centre, its funder, or its partners.