THE CHEMISTRY OF EMOTIONS IN THE TEACHING–LEARNING PROCESS: CONTRIBUTIONS OF NEUROSCIENCE TO CHEMISTRY EDUCATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61164/k4ye2y83Keywords:
Emotions, Neurochemistry, Chemistry Education, Learning, NeuroscienceAbstract
Emotions play a fundamental role in learning processes, directly influencing attention, memory, motivation, and student engagement. In recent decades, research in neuroscience and education has demonstrated that emotions are mediated by complex neurochemical processes involving the release and regulation of neurotransmitters and hormones that modulate cognitive functioning. In this context, Chemistry education traditionally characterized by high levels of abstraction and learning difficulties emerges as a fertile field for reflections that integrate cognitive, emotional, and biological dimensions. This theoretical and reflective article discusses the chemistry of emotions and its relationship with the teaching learning process, with an emphasis on Chemistry education. The roles of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, GABA, endorphins, and oxytocin are addressed, highlighting their influence on attention, memory, motivation, and meaningful learning. Furthermore, the paper discusses the implications of this neurochemical perspective for the development of pedagogical practices that foster emotionally positive learning experiences. By articulating contributions from neuroscience and education, this study reinforces the inseparability of emotion and cognition in learning and points to the potential of more integrative and emotionally sensitive approaches to Chemistry teaching.
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