Teaching With the Brain in Mind

8 Emotions
71
and
Learning
The cognitive side of learning usually gets a
great deal of attention, but a tugging
undercurrent persists. It is the domain of
emotions, the so-called affective side of learning.
We all know it’s there, but it’s commonly thought
of as a distraction to learning. In fact, some still
believe that learning and emotions are at opposite
ends of the spectrum. It’s time for all of us to catch
up on the research.
Biologically, emotions are not only very current
science, but also very important science. Neuroscientists
are now breaking new ground in mapping
out this important learning component. The affective
side of learning is the critical interplay between
how we feel, act, and think. There is no separation
of mind and emotions; emotions, thinking, and
learning are all linked. This chapter makes the case
that emotions have an important and rightful place
in learning and in schools.
Western Culture and Emotions
Western culture has had a peculiar attitude about
human emotion. Though we acknowledge that
emotions exist, they have always held lower court.
KEY CONCEPTS
◗ The role of emotions in the
thinking and learning
process
◗ Why use the more
emotionally laced learning?
◗ Differences between
emotions and feelings
◗ Specific strategies for
emotional engagement