Emotions and Self-Development

In recent years emotions have come to be seen as playing an important role in the cognitive and motivational processes that influence learning (Baumeister et al. 2007, Dirkx 2008, Pekrun et al. 2002). Most of the research addressing emotion in learning has focused on traditional and formal learning approaches, especially within academic settings (Simpson and Marshall 2010, Zimmerman 2000, 2008). However, the growing complexity and dynamic nature of the contemporary work environment have stimulated considerable research attention to less formal and self-directed approaches to learning (Ellinger 2004).