Research Trends on Emotional Factors in the e-Learning Context

Abstract

Considering the increasing roles and impacts of emotional factors in the e-learning context, the current study intends to examine the research trends on emotion within e-learning and suggest implications for emotionally sensitive e-learning. To accomplish this goal, a comprehensive review was conducted. Inquiry on emotions experienced during learning, the effects of emotions and emotional strategies in learning processes and outcomes, and instructional factors or design models facilitating positive emotions were the most frequently appearing issues. However, those research approaches mostly deal with learners’ aspect, neither teachers’ aspect nor multiple and the dynamic interaction between learners and teachers. Considering the value of positive emotional experiences to reduce ambiguity in communication and enhance the learning experience, factors influencing emotional experience and design strategies for emotionally sensitive e-learning need more attention in research and practice.