The potential of biophysiology for understanding motivation, engagement and learning experiences
Andrew J. Martin, Lars‐Erik Malmberg, Eija Pakarinen, Lucia Masón, Tim Mainhard
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Integrative models applied to human learning and performance emphasize the joint operation of biological, psychological, social, and educational processes to fully understand human functioning. Educational psychology researchers have typically emphasized psycho-educational and psycho-social factors in motivation, engagement and learning, but do not often consider the biophysiological factors. RESULTS: This Editorial and Special Issue advances current understanding on the role of biophysiological factors and processes in students' and teachers' motivation, engagement, and learning experiences, by showcasing recent educational research that included biophysiological measures and methods. CONCLUSIONS: As we discuss, conducting integrative biophysiological and psycho-educational research has potential to derive vital substantive, methodological, and applied insights that provide a rigorous basis for more effective educational theory, research, and practice.