According to Merriam-Webster, empathy is understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and encounters of another. Teaching students empathy prepares them for life after high school.  For example, dealing with a coworker, understanding the reasons why a boss changed the work schedule, and connecting with a job coach require empathy. 

There are three types of empathy:

• Emotional empathy happens when we physically feel what another is feeling. For example, we might cry when someone close to us is crying.
• Compassionate empathy involves offering supportive action such as a listening ear.
• Cognitive empathy occurs when we know and understand what someone is thinking or feeling. For instance, attending a webinar on a new corporate policy, we practice cognitive empathy.

Communicating the importance and practice of empathy prepares students for success in many settings. So how can we teach empathy?

• Model and practice active listening. Quiet your thoughts, face the student, maintain eye contact, and listen to learn. Ask questions to ensure understanding. For example, “From what I hear, this is a very difficult time for you.”
• Consistently discuss perspective. After reading an article, discuss the individuals involved and how the experience affects them.
• Practice postponing judgement. Teach students to ask questions. When resolving a conflict between two students, encourage them to ask, “What information am I missing? How can I learn more about this before forming an opinion?”
• Participate in community or schoolwide projects. Identify areas in your school or community where people need help. Plan the process together. Afterwards, reflect on how the experience made everyone feel.

Resources:

• Grand Canyon University—Six steps to cultivate empathy
• Positive Psychology in Action—Insights from the Science of Happiness
• Edutopia—Strategies for teaching empathy