Speakers
KEYWORDS
epistemic emotions
brain-based TEFL
learner agency and autonomy
classroom activities
ABSTRACT
Emotions shape how learners engage with material and retain information. While positive emotions like enjoyment are widely recognized, epistemic emotions such as curiosity and surprise—central to deeper thinking and knowledge exploration—remain underexplored in foreign language education. This presentation begins by reviewing the theoretical underpinnings of emotions in foreign language education, drawing on psychological concepts (emotionally enhanced memory) and neuroscientific insights (amygdala’s role in learning). Multinational hypotheses on emotion and the cutting-edge Free Energy Principle will provide a robust framework for understanding how epistemic emotion drives learning. The practical component introduces classroom activities designed to align with PanSIG 2025’s theme of agency and autonomy. Activities include Challenger’s Reading Circle, where learners create self-generated quizzes to enhance curiosity and agency, and P4ELT Discussions, which empower learners to democratically select and discuss topics of authentic interest. Additionally, Peekers and Word Bingo supports autonomy by allowing students to choose vocabulary words and lead parts of the game, fostering decision-making and engagement. Treasure Hunting encourages collaborative problem-solving and creative clue design, enabling learners to navigate tasks independently. These activities exemplify how fostering epistemic emotions enhances agency, autonomy, and engagement. Educators will gain actionable strategies to create emotionally resonant, learner-centered environments.
| TITLE | Brain-based emotion-involved activities enhancing agency and autonomy |
|---|---|
| RELEVANT SIG | Mind, Brain, and Education |
| FORMAT | Practice-oriented Oral Face-to-face presentation (25 minutes, including Q&A) |
| First-time presenter? | First-time presenter |
