Learning is an emotional journey - there is no aspect of learning that doesn’t involve emotions.
Engaging positive emotions is probably one of the most vital components of learning. Simply put if we feel anxious or angry that tends to close down our ability to learn as we are operating from the more primitive part of the brain where are focus becomes narrow and focussed on the threat. In a classroom situation that threat could be the fear of the teacher asking us a question and the corresponding response could be that of “freeze” sitting quietly hoping no one notices me.
On the other hand positive emotions broaden our thought action repertoire allowing us to be more creative, building our capacity to learn, make friends and demonstrate positive learning dispositions such as resilience and curiosity.
We used to think that if people do well they will feel good, now we know that this is the wrong way round, that if people feel good then that provides the fuel and energy to succeed.
So what are we doing for ourselves, our teams and especially our children to promote a positive learning environment?
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