Can a simplified approach to emotional intelligence be the key to learner-centered teaching?

Abstract

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to recognize and understand emotions, and to use this awareness to manage your own behavior and relationships.1 Widely popular in business and psychology, its medical practice applications have largely been limited to practice management and physician-patient communication skills.2–,5 In graduate medical education, EQ has been applied to educate learners in use of self-awareness and interpersonal and communication skills with colleagues and patients. EQ has the potential to improve other interpersonal interactions. For example, it can help faculty develop more effective learner-centered experiences by individualizing curricula, providing more meaningful feedback, and improving remediation programs.6,7