Conceptual and Computational Analysis of the Role of Emotions and Social Influence in Learning

In this paper it is analysed how emotions and the social environment affect active and reflective learning processes. First a conceptual analysis is made using recent insights from Cognitive, Affective and Social Neuroscience on the roles of emotions and social interactions on learning. Next, a computational analysis is made using a computational model of learning processes following these insights. In this analysis neural mechanisms for the impact of both a person’s own emotions and the emotions of others are taken into account. In particular, it is considered how these impacts work for different learning types, such as active or reflective learners. The analysis shows how the impacts of emotions and social interaction strengthen the learning process. It is discussed how from these insights indicators can be obtained that can be used to design technology-enhanced learning environments able to exploit these impacts. © 2012 Published by Elsevier Ltd.