Both learners and teachers could benefit from knowing the types of emotions that are most often present in learning; the former, to be able to tame and then manage them; and the latter, to develop adapted approaches, but also to recognize them in learners and intervene with tact.

Here are the 4 main types of emotions that have a significant impact on learning:

  1. Achievement Emotions

They are linked to activities that have a goal as well as to the success or failure of these activities. Examples: having fun learning, being afraid of failure, hoping to succeed, etc.

  1. Epistemic emotions

They are triggered by cognitive problems. Examples: being surprised, motivated or perplexed about a proposed exercise, being satisfied after successfully solving a challenge, etc.

  1. Thematic Emotions

Whether positive or negative, these are related to a specific topic of study. Examples: having an aversion to mathematics, getting excited discussing politics, etc.

  1. Social emotions

Positive or negative, they take root in the interrelations that the learner has with the teacher as well as with his peers. Examples: appreciation, admiration, expectations, social anxiety, envy, etc.

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Catherine Meilleur

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Catherine Meilleur

Creative Content Writer @KnowledgeOne. Questioner of questions. Hyperflexible stubborn. Contemplative yogi.