Influence of Stress and Emotions in the Learning Process: The Example of COVID-19 on University Students: A Narrative Review

Emotional instability and stress are the main disturbances that condition the learning process, affecting both teachers and students. The main objective of this review is to analyze the influence of stress and emotions (as part of stress) on the learning environment. Stress is a physiological mechanism that the organism develops to adapt and survive external and internal challenges. In this context, stress tends to be seen as a negative condition in the learning process when it is chronic. Extreme stress situations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, can generate anxiety and frustration in students. However, other studies indicate that controlled stress can positively enhance the learning process. On the other hand, the quality and intensity of emotions resulting from stress can influence as well the learning process. Positive emotions are healthy and can promote optimal learning. Emotions lead to sentimental, cognitive, behavioral, and physiological changes, which will have a strong influence on intellectual performance. The activation of coping strategies constitutes a key mechanism for dealing positively with problems and challenges, generating positive emotions essential for the self-regulation of learning. In conclusion, correct management of emotions in stressful situations could promote effective learning through enhanced attention and capacity to solve problems.

Automated summary

Emotional instability and stress are major disturbances in the learning process, affecting both teachers and students. This review analyzes the influence of stress and emotions on the learning environment. Stress is a physiological mechanism for adapting and surviving challenges. While chronic stress is seen as negative, controlled stress can enhance learning. The intensity and quality of emotions resulting from stress also influence the learning process. Positive emotions promote optimal learning, leading to changes in cognition, behavior, and physiology. Activation of coping strategies is essential for managing stress and generating positive emotions, promoting effective learning through improved attention and problem-solving abilities.