When the brain comes into play: Neurofunctional correlates of emotions and reward in game-based learning

Accumulating evidence identifies emotions as drivers of effective learning. In parallel, game-based learning was found to emotionally engage learners, allegedly harnessing the fundamental tie between and cognition. Questioning further whether how elicit emotional processes, current fMRI study examined neurofunctional correlates by directly comparing a non-game-based version digital task. We evaluated activation patterns within comprehensive set brain areas involved in reward processes (e.g. amygdala or ventral tegmental area) when participants received feedback. With only few exceptions, decoding these areas’ indicated predominantly stronger relative task version. As such, our results substantiate on level that leads an invigoration through engagement. • using fMRI. compared areas. The led increased associated with emotion processing. underscore importance level.