Enjoying the Challenge of Difficult Classes: Unusual Enjoyment?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the psychological and emotional satisfaction derived from tackling challenging academic subjects, particularly in the context of Engineering Dynamics. Participants express a shared experience of feeling exhilarated when engaging with difficult material, comparing it to fulfilling basic physical needs. This phenomenon is attributed to an innate human drive to explore and learn, suggesting that overcoming academic challenges can lead to a rewarding sense of achievement and motivation for continued learning.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic engineering concepts, particularly in dynamics.
  • Familiarity with psychological principles related to motivation and learning.
  • Knowledge of the academic environment and its challenges.
  • Awareness of the emotional responses associated with learning difficult material.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the psychological effects of learning difficult subjects in education.
  • Explore techniques for enhancing motivation in challenging academic courses.
  • Investigate the role of curiosity and exploration in learning processes.
  • Examine case studies on student experiences in rigorous engineering programs.
USEFUL FOR

Students in challenging academic programs, educators seeking to understand student motivation, and anyone interested in the psychological aspects of learning difficult subjects.

Azmodan
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I think the answers to this question may be a little biased but, oh well.

Is it normal to get a high off of taking abnormally difficult classes (well, at least difficult for me). I'm 3/4 of the way through Engineering Dynamics and wow it's been pretty rough, but I freaking LOVED it. I don't know what it is. Was it the crazy amount of math, the subject matter or the fact that it was just difficult?

Anybody else feel the same way about other courses you took/are taking? Did I even post this in the right section?
 
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Azmodan, Welcome here to Physics Forums!

Yes, others feel the same "high" when learning immensely complicated/difficult material. A person is satisfying a physical "need", for example, drinking cool water when thirsty, or like eating when hungry. The psychological need satisfaction you have experienced hopefully will contribute towards motivating you to continue this learning process! Good Luck! And, it is a better high than any drug!
 
yes, it sure feels goood when a mystery disappears.

I guess we're programmed by Mother Nature to explore.
 

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