Emotion Regulation in Academic, Contentious Learning Discussions: Analysis and Effects on the Quality of the Dialogue

Abstract

Based on a novel design of university level course, we explored the quality of discussions conducted in digital media, and the recollected emotional experiences reported by student. No effect was found for emotion on dialogue's quality. Emotional experiences were affected from the subject of the discussion and from the level and type of participation of group members. Emotions were often shared in intensity but not in valence. Implications for the implementation of contentious discussions in higher education are discussed.