SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Social responsibility encompasses a wide variety of vital skills. It is, by definition, the theory that an entity (the individual or a group) has an obligation to benefit society or the larger group as a whole. It requires that there be balance between the entity and the system. In terms of education and the student, social responsibility is the idea that the student is responsible for their actions and the consequences of those actions. Students learn that it is beneficial that everyone act in a way that is not harmful and that society/community is not adversely affected by the actions of one or a few.
INDEPENDENCE
Developing a healthy sense of independence, self-reliance and self-motivation is essential to child development. Encouraging children to make simple choices at an age appropriate level is monumental in building their motivation and independence. Presenting tasks which allow children to work through choices and outcomes will help guide them through problem solving strategies and understanding consequences, both positive and negative.

A key component to teaching independence is praising children for doing things on their own no matter what the outcome. If there is a problem or glitch in the solution encouraging children to think of possible solutions or ways to alter the outcome rather than telling them the answers will help create autonomous and intelligent critical thinkers.

Independence is also grown through respecting choice. Even when the outcome may be clear to an adult, the child must experience and make mistakes in order to help develop problem solving skills. Showing interest in children's ideas and opinions will spark independence and self-worth. This also will lead to intrinsic motivation to achieve and carry through to adulthood.
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Children strive to feel competent and capable in all situations. Providing chances and opportunities for them to safely make mistakes harbors the development of independence.
COOPERATION
Much of school is viewed as a competitive enterprise in which one must do better than their peers in a multitude of activities in situations. However, society and social groupings are based upon interdependence and cooperation in order to be healthy as, not only an individual, but as a whole functioning group.

Working together to achieve a common goal produces higher achievement and greater productivity than merely working alone. This is so well documented and confirmed by research studies that it has become one of the strongest principles of social psychology.

Cooperation also promotes creativity as it generates more ideas, a wider array of perspectives, increases quality of ideas, strengthens originality of expression in problem solving, and enhances feelings of stimulation and enjoyment.

Independence is directly correlated to cooperation as well. The two feed off one another and work symbiotically to enhance self-responsibility as well as societal responsibility.
PEER INTERACTION
​Social interaction is fundamental to a thriving community, whether large or small. Peer interactions play an instrumental role in building a strong communal life. The crowd's ability to provide emotional and instrumental support as well as foster friendship and facilitate interaction among members is critical.

​Peer groups serve a multitude of functions; it is essential for cognitive, language, and social development. Language and vocabulary are acquired through interactions with others. Children learn how to argue, negotiate and persuade when interacting with one another. They learn how to utilize tone, express empathy, and resolve conflicts, apologize, and show support.

Peer intercation also serves as the foundation for emotional development. Interaction allows the individual to develop self-concept, self-esteem, and identity. Children are able to learn about themselves during interactions with peers and then use this information to form a sense of self.

When a child is able to develop language and communication through interaction they are able to discuss their thoughts and fears, express new ideas and thoughts, and develop problem solving. Therefore, stronger language skills equate to stronger cognitive skills.
NEGOTIATION SKILLS
Negotiations happen on a daily basis and are necessary for a healthy, well functioning society and community. Students learn negotiations through peer interaction as well as adult interaction and modeling.

Some key components of negotiation skills include the following:
- Listen carefully to the arguments and points of others and assess the logic of their reasoning.
- Clarify any issues or points you do not understand (use how, what, why, when, and where questions).
- Identify areas of common ground or points agreed upon.
- Remain calm and use an even, non-aggressive tone (demonstrate diplomacy to diffuse tension).
- Compromise when necessary and offer concessions when needed.

Negotiations skills require that students listen to the needs of one another, establish trust, formulate agreements acceptable to both sides, and use open and honest communication (both verbal and physical). Negotiating also includes the concepts of persuasion and influencing.

Negotiations also occur in the world around us. Being able to accurately asses a situation and negotiate solutions is vital to being a successful member of society.
SELF-EXPRESSION
Self-expression is highly valued in our society because it considered a fundamental right that all humans have. Expression of thoughts, feelings, and preferences is a powerful sign of individual freedom. It allows students to communicate who they are to one another and to society.

Being able to express inner thoughts and beliefs allows one to fully develop a sense of self and individuality. Self-expression is the building block of personality. It also allows students to strengthen their self-confidence. Problem-solving skills that help children cope with their feelings, relive stress and anxiety, and develop a stronger sense of emotional well being are all augmented through self-expression.