The Role of Emotions in the Learning Process

This present chapter examines the crucial and particularly important role of emotions in the learning process, focusing on the “emotional brain” and its connection to learning, particularly in the context of paediatric oncology. The role played by emotions and the emotional state of individuals is not just a secondary factor in learning, but a critical element affecting executive functions. Brain structures play a key role in the regulation of emotion and cognitive function.The challenge in the case of children with cancer is particularly great, as emotional regulation and mental resilience influence to a significant extent how children respond to learning challenges. Significant barriers to mastery of emotional and cognitive development are played by the disease and its accompanying experiences. The role of neuropedagogy is to provide an innovative, structured and targeted framework for enhancing the emotionality of children with cancer, combining knowledge from neuroscience, psychology and pedagogy.