Learning and emotions

We are happy when we can communicate in a foreign language. We are proud of ourselves and our learning progress. On the other hand, if we aren't successful we're upset or disappointed. Different feelings are thus associated with learning. New studies have come to interesting results. They show that feelings play a role during learning. Because our emotions influence our success in learning. Learning is always a ‘problem’ for our brain. And it wants to solve this problem. Whether or not it is successful depends on our emotions. If we believe we can solve the problem, we're confident. This emotional stability helps us in learning. Positive thinking promotes our intellectual abilities. On the other hand, learning under stress does not work as well. Doubt or worrying hinders good performance. We learn especially poorly when we are afraid. In that case, our brain cannot store new content very well. Therefore, it is important to always be motivated when learning. So emotions influence learning. But learning also influences our emotions! The same brain structures that process facts also process emotions. So learning can make you happy, and those who are happy learn better. Of course learning isn't always fun; it can also be tedious. For this reason we should always set small goals. This way we won't overtax our brain. And we guarantee that we can fulfill our expectations. Our success is then a reward that motivates us all over again. So: Learn something – and smile while you do so!

Guess the language!

Greek is counted among the Indo-European languages. However, it is not closely related to any other language in the world. Modern Greek must not be confused with Ancient Greek. Ancient Greek is still taught at many schools and universities. In the past it was the language of philosophy and science. It was also used as a common language by those traveling through the ancient world. On the other hand, Modern Greek is the native language of about 13 million people. It evolved from ancient Greek.

It is difficult to say when exactly Modern Greek originated. One thing is certain: it is more simply constructed than ancient Greek. All the same, numerous archaic forms remain in Modern Greek. It is a very uniform language too, in which no strong dialects are present. It is written with the Greek alphabet that is almost 2500 years old. An interesting fact is that Greek is counted among the languages that have the largest vocabulary. So if you like to learn vocabulary you should start with Greek.