Motivation and emotion/Book/2013/Emotion and learning

Overview
This book chapter will focus on the role emotions plays in learning. Focus questions
 * 1) What is learning?
 * 2) How does the human brain learn?
 * 3) What are the different types of learning?
 * 4) What are emotions?
 * 5) What role does emotion play in learning?

Definition of learning
Learning is the acquisition of knowledge or skills through study, experience, or being taught (SOURCE).

How does the human brain learn?
Intro here. "I am always ready to learn; but I do not always like being taught" ～ Winston Churchill

The limbic system


The limbic system as shown in figure 1 is located in the centre of the brain.

The limbic system interprets the signals of the body to regulate emotions and behaviour.

As displayed in figure 1, the olfactory bulb, papahippocampal gyrus, cingulate gyrus and amygdala are critical areas in the development of emotion and are also areas utilised in learning new information and memory recovery.

Different types of learning
There are many different types of learning, with different psychological theories and approaches. "School has taught me not only how to learn in the classroom, but outside the classroom as well. Where do you think I learned how to climb, swing and skip? Where do you think I learned how to meet my best friend?" ～ Jessie Braun

Classical conditioning
Here.

Associative learning
Here. "Experience: that most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God, do you learn." ～ C.S. Lewis

Behavioural learning
Here.

Operant conditioning
Here.

Observational learning
Here.

What are emotions?
Emotion is a strong feeling deriving from one’s circumstances, mood, or relationships with others (SOURCE).

What role does emotion play in learning?
Here.

Conclusion
Here.