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An open-source AI-powered teacher coaching chatbot for diverse SEL programming in low-resource settings

ChatSEL is a generative AI coach that provides teachers with evidence-based and context-sensitive guidance on understanding and implementing SEL programs in a low-resource classroom.

We work with NGOs to develop multiple context-specific versions of ChatSEL that incorporate both academic knowledge on SEL coaching and the organization's own SEL curriculum.

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Current Partners

  • The Agency Fund
  • NYU
  • Enseña por Colombia

Talk to ChatSEL

Start chatting with safe and powerful AI in seconds. ChatSEL speaks your language - simply message us on WhatsApp to learn how to apply social emotional learning for your classroom today.

Frequently asked questions

If you have anything else you want to ask, reach out to us.

    • What is social and emotional learning (SEL)?

      Social and emotional learning (SEL) refers to the non-academic skills people need to set goals, manage behavior, build relationships, and process information. These skills develop throughout life and are critical for success in school, work, home, and community. They are typically grouped into three areas: cognitive, social, and emotional. SEL skills are shaped by — and interact with — our attitudes, beliefs, mindsets, character, values, and the environments we are in.

    • Why did we build ChatSEL?

      In many low-resource settings, teachers often face challenges such as:

      • • Limited time and financial resources for training
      • • Overburdened responsibilities that hinder program implementation
      • • Lack of access to continuous support and feedback around SEL practices

      ChatSEL addresses these barriers by being an always-on teacher companion that provides evidence-based and context-sensitive guidance on any SEL programs. The current version of ChatSEL is built via WhatsApp, a widely accessible platform to many low-resource settings.

    • Do I need special training to use ChatSEL?

      No special training is required. ChatSEL is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. Simply message us on WhatsApp and our AI will guide you through implementing SEL strategies that work for your classroom context.

    • What languages does ChatSEL support?

      ChatSEL is designed to be multilingual, allowing teachers to interact in their preferred language. This helps make SEL instruction more accessible to educators worldwide. We are currently working with Enseña por Colombia (Teach for Colombia) to better support Spanish-speaking teachers, and we plan to expand to other languages in the future.

    • Is ChatSEL's AI safe and reliable?

      Yes, ChatSEL is built with safety and reliability as top priorities. Our AI is specifically trained on validated SEL frameworks and educational best practices. We continuously monitor and update our system to ensure accurate, appropriate, and helpful responses.

    • How much does ChatSEL cost?

      ChatSEL is free to use. As an open-source project backed by the Agency Fund and leading SEL researchers from Harvard and NYU, our mission is to make quality SEL resources accessible to all teachers, especially those in low-resource settings.

    • Can I use ChatSEL offline?

      While ChatSEL primarily works through WhatsApp which requires internet connection, we're developing features to help teachers access key resources offline, understanding the connectivity challenges in many educational settings.

    • How do I get started with ChatSEL?

      Getting started is simple - just message us on WhatsApp. Our AI will guide you through understanding SEL concepts and implementing them in your classroom. We also provide ongoing support as you develop your SEL teaching practice.