Emotional Intelligence (or EI) became the hot new buzz word in the human resources world in 2005. However, it is such a sufficiently abstract concept that very little empirical data exists to support the theory of success in the workplace as a result of practical applications of Emotional Intelligence. Having said that, I wonder how or in what ways we can use emotional intelligence to enhance the adult learning process, and benefit the workplace.
Emotions are a guiding force. They are essential to our inner self and are rooted at our deepest core. The decision-making process is more significantly influenced by emotional reaction rather than intellectual consideration. Humans react and learn through emotional experiences. Our emotions guide our behavior and are more powerful than anything we could say or do as instructors or trainees. As a result, emotions are important in adult learning because they can either motivate or impede learning by how they shape and mold our learning experiences.
In the adult learning process, emotional intelligence plays a critical role in the application, transfer, or retention of knowledge. Emotional intelligence also affects the experiences of the adult learner. As the ability to cultivate strong and trusting relationships with many different types of people is desirable in the workplace, the importance of emotional intelligence becomes evident.
Emotions emerge from our experiences such as: information processing, social interaction, and cultural contexts, and through these experiences we determine what is of value to us. The cognitive construction of emotions allows us to understand the world around us. For example, if learners are anxious, uncomfortable, fearful, bored or opposed to the learning initiative, they will not learn. This is manifested through withdrawal, avoidance, non-engagement from the learner, failure to submit assignments, etc.
On the other hand, if learners are enthused, excited, or grateful for the learning experience, these emotions will intensify their desire to learn. Emotions serve as filters, and our freedom to learn is dependent upon previous emotions experienced while learning. Emotional factors facilitate personal transformation which leads to meaningful learning. Emotions are the framework adults use to make meaning of the knowledge presented to them.
Insomuch as emotions play a fundamental role in how we define ourselves, understanding this dynamic allows for the development of self-knowledge which leads to external learning. Therefore, as educators we must create emotionally safe environments where learners are free to express themselves.
There are five key elements to emotional intelligence:
- Awareness of one’s own emotions – the ability to recognize emotional responses inside oneself as they occur
- Effective management of one’s own emotions – the ability to choose behavior in response to emotional stimulus
- Self motivation – the ability to do what is needed to achieve goals
- Awareness of others’ emotional cues – the ability to be sensitive to others’ emotional responses to situations
- Handling relationships effectively – the ability to make wise decisions regarding one’s own behavior.
The benefits of emotional intelligence in the workplace are many.
- First, emotional intelligence ensures the integrity of the organization’s people and processes. When people choose to learn and practiced new behaviors that help them handle relationships more effectively, they demonstrate the skill of emotional intelligence.
- Secondly, emotional intelligence brings harmony to work teams and the workplace in general. As a result, there is greater productivity and improved morale.
- Thirdly, Organizations are including emotional intelligence in their core competencies. In organizations where EI is a core competency there is an increased ability to interact effectively with potential customers and clients.
- These organizations also have an edge when faced with challenges such as diversity and globalization.
- Fourth, emotional intelligence is now seen as a tool to use in problem solving. Emotional intelligence teaches us to pay attention to what drives the behavior of others.
- Fifth, emotions are data that can be used to analyze the effectiveness of our learning initiatives.
- Lastly, leaders who possess high levels of EI tend to be more articulate and are able to build enthusiasm for a shared vision. They possess traits such as listening, being empathetic and intuitive. They are also able to gain the respect of the employees which in turn builds a more cohesive business unit overall.
In summation, today’s knowledge is tomorrow’s unawareness. As new challenges occur, we must develop a means to tap into the vast knowledge base of the adult learner, whether in a safe learning environment or on the shop floor. Adult learners are being forced to sharpen their present skills as well as learn new skills. In order to facilitate their learning we as instructors or managers must create an emotionally engaging environment that will challenge (as well as encourage) learning and the transfer of knowledge.
References
Guss, Elizabeth, MA. (2005). Emotional Intelligence: Our Most Versatile Tool for Success. (pp. 1-8).
Merriam, Sharan B., Caffarella, Rosemary S., Baumgartner, Lisa M.
(2007). Learning in Adulthood. San Francisco, CA. Jossey-Bass.
Schuck, B., Albornoz C., & Winberg, M. (2007). Emotions and their effect on Adult Learning: A constructivist perspective.
Proceedings of the Sixth Annual College of Educatin Research Conference: Urban and International Education Section. (pp. 108-113).
Weatherly, Leslie A., (2005). Emotional Intelligence: Transforming the
Workplace. (pp. 1-4).
© 2019 Rhonda L Foster. All Rights Reserved.
