“Learning with Passion and Enthusiasm” by Unknown
This video talks about the connection between brain
chemistry and learning. According to studies, the chemicals in the brain that
produce feelings of passion and enthusiasm (endorphins, dopamine, and other
neurotransmitters) are related to the process of learning. While dopamine and
endorphins are commonly associated with delight and interest, the other neurotransmitters
relay information to areas of the brain responsible for memory. Scientists who
have studied these in people interacting with various stimulants (cocaine,
looking at expensive versus cheap cars, shopping) have noted that there is a parallel
between the speed of information processing and levels of dopamine. What they
have found, unfortunately, that different kinds of “fun” produce varying effects
on these chemicals. “When we are planning a trip with our friends, or when we
have an unexpected inspiring conversation with a stranger, our brain releases
neurotransmitters in abundance and we start recording with all of our senses in
high definition… to make it a creative and memorable experience.”
Thus, to have learning experiences that extend beyond the
short-term gratification of our general outlets for entertainment (shopping,
interacting with others, daydreaming) one must examine whether it generates
excitement and how much. This video drives home for me the nuances between the levels
of enjoyment and how it affects retention rate. It makes sense that the most
lasting learning is in the period from infancy through childhood when one has
no shortage of curiosity and enthusiasm. Looking back at my own life, this
video answers some questions for me about what must be behind my senioritis this
semester. I suspect the novelty of college has worn away after a couple years. I
suppose this is also why long-term couples who leave the “honeymoon” stage have
such a tough time recapturing their former spark. In the same what that
happiness and learning promote one another, it seems that the sluggishness of
the one must discourage the other.
(Image Source: Pixabay Stock Photos)
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