Learning and Emotions

Kristen Jones

                The subject of how emotions affect learning is important to me, because I have had various experiences with strong emotions of children in the classroom and it can be difficult to handle, because I have no control of a child’s reactions. What I have learned from the article “How Emotions Affect Learning” (Sylwester, 1994) is that even though we cannot control someone’s emotions, there are things we can do to have an influence on emotions and learning.

                Continuous stress on a person can cause neuron damage in the hippocampus, part of the brain that converts short-term memory to long-term declarative memory. In my classroom I will involve the class in activities that will lower stress levels. Exercise and positive social contact can increase endorphins, which can increase positive feelings and counteract stress.

                The limbic system is part of the brain that regulates emotions and works in memory processing. If a memory is made during a specific emotional event then it will be easier to remember later on. This can be incorporated into the classroom by providing experiences that relate to the subject the class is learning. These experiences can be role playing, simulations, group activities, field trips, and others.

                The frontal lobe is another part of the brain that regulates emotions and it also is involved in critical thinking. Emotions can override rational thinking, but students can learn how and when to use rational processes. The article mentions that a way to overcome this issue is to provide students with a safe and nonjudgmental environment where they can vent their emotions. I would also add activities to help students use critical thinking skills.

                By using these suggestions from the article I hope to have a classroom where children feel comfortable and where they will be able to focus on learning.

Figure 1Kristen Jones brightsideeducation.blogspot.com

References

Sylwester, R. (Oct. 1994). How Emotions Affect Learning. Educational Leadership,vol. 52, pgs. 60-65 retrieved from  http://ezp1r.riosalado.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=f5h&bquery=%26quot%3bHow+emotions+affect+learning%26quot%3b&type=0&site=ehost-live.

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