In the evolving landscape of education, the integration of humor into pedagogical practices has become a subject of growing interest among researchers, educators, and students alike. Recent studies have suggested that humor, when used effectively in the classroom, not only engages learners but also fosters a supportive and dynamic learning environment. A groundbreaking study published in BMC Psychology in 2025 sheds new light on how preservice teachers—those preparing to enter the teaching profession—view pedagogical humor, and how various factors such as physical activity, sociodemographic background, and their academic disciplines influence these attitudes.
Pedagogical humor is not merely about entertaining students; it serves as a sophisticated educational tool that can facilitate learning by reducing anxiety, increasing motivation, and enhancing memory retention. The researchers Çakır, Çatıkkaş, Türkmen, and colleagues systematically explored the complex interplay between preservice teachers’ attitudes towards humor and distinct personal and contextual variables. Their inquiry is timely, given the increasing recognition of social-emotional learning as a critical component of effective teaching.
The study’s methodology involved a comprehensive survey of preservice teachers from diverse academic backgrounds, ensuring a representative sample that includes future educators from various disciplines such as the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Participants were assessed regarding their propensity to incorporate humor in teaching, their preferred types of humor, and their perceived efficacy of humor in creating positive learning outcomes. By integrating questions related to physical activity levels and sociodemographic information, the researchers sought to elucidate potential underlying factors that might shape these attitudes.
One of the novel insights from the study reveals a significant correlation between physical activity and positive attitudes toward pedagogical humor. The underlying hypothesis suggests that individuals who engage regularly in physical exercise may possess heightened emotional regulation and social skills, which in turn foster a greater appreciation for humor in educational settings. This connection bridges psychological theories about well-being and cognitive function, positioning physical activity not just as a health-promoting habit but also as a contributor to teaching efficacy.
Furthermore, sociodemographic factors such as age, gender, and socioeconomic status emerged as influential components in shaping preservice teachers’ humor perceptions. Older preservice teachers demonstrated a more nuanced understanding of humor’s pedagogical applications, possibly attributed to their broader life experiences. Gender differences manifested in preferences for different humor styles and comfort levels with using humor in instructional contexts, echoing prior research in gender studies and communication.
Academic discipline emerged as a particularly compelling variable in this research. Preservice teachers specializing in the humanities displayed a stronger inclination towards using humor pedagogically compared to their counterparts in STEM disciplines. This finding may reflect disciplinary cultures, where the humanities often emphasize narrative, creativity, and emotional expression, whereas STEM fields prioritize precision and objectivity. The challenge, therefore, lies in encouraging educators from all disciplines to harness humor in ways that complement their subject matter and teaching style.
From a technical standpoint, the study employed advanced statistical analyses, including multivariate regression models and structural equation modeling, to disentangle the effects of intertwined variables. This rigorous approach ensured that the conclusions drawn were not merely correlational but indicative of deeper causal pathways. The authors also utilized validated psychometric instruments to measure attitudes toward humor, ensuring reliability and validity across diverse participant groups.
Beyond the quantitative data, the researchers delved into theoretical frameworks that underpin humor studies in education. Drawing from the incongruity theory of humor and the relief theory, the paper postulates that humor functions both as a cognitive stimulus and an emotional catalyst. It disrupts conventional thinking by introducing unexpected perspectives and provides psychological relief from the stresses inherent in learning environments. These theories help explain why humor, when strategically employed, enhances student engagement and conceptual understanding.
The practical implications of this study are multifaceted. Teacher education programs can benefit by incorporating modules that train preservice teachers not only in content delivery but also in the art of pedagogical humor. Such training can equip future educators with the skills to gauge the appropriateness of humor, tailor it to their classroom demographics, and use it to foster inclusivity and respect. Additionally, promoting physical activity within teacher training programs might indirectly enhance humor appreciation and usage, thereby enriching classroom dynamics.
Moreover, the study underscores the importance of cultural sensitivity when employing humor. Pedagogical humor that resonates in one sociocultural context might fall flat or even offend in another. This variable adds another layer of complexity to teacher preparation, calling for adaptive and reflective teaching practices. Future research might explore cross-cultural comparisons to better understand how humor operates in diverse educational systems.
One limitation acknowledged by the authors includes the reliance on self-reported data, which can introduce bias or inaccuracies. Nonetheless, the robust sample size and methodological triangulation bolster the credibility of the findings. The study sets the stage for longitudinal research to observe how these attitudes evolve as preservice teachers transition into professional roles and face real classroom challenges.
In conclusion, this pioneering research not only advances our understanding of preservice teachers’ attitudes toward pedagogical humor but also highlights the interconnectedness of psychological well-being, sociodemographic background, and academic discipline in shaping these attitudes. The findings advocate for a holistic approach in teacher education that values humor as a pedagogical asset, encourages physical activity, and accounts for diverse personal and professional contexts. As education continues to adapt to the demands of the 21st century, embracing humor could be a key driver in creating more engaging, effective, and human-centered classrooms.
The resonance of this study extends beyond academia, striking a chord with educators, policymakers, and students worldwide who recognize the transformative power of humor in learning. As classrooms evolve to become spaces of creativity, critical thinking, and emotional growth, humor stands out as a vehicle that can seamlessly blend joy with knowledge acquisition. This research is a compelling invitation to rethink teacher preparation and educational practices through the lens of humor, physical vitality, and diversity, promising a brighter horizon for future generations of learners.
Subject of Research: Preservice teachers’ attitudes toward pedagogical humor and their relationship with physical activity, sociodemographic factors, and academic discipline.
Article Title: Preservice teachers’ attitudes toward pedagogical humour: the role of physical activity, sociodemographic factors, and academic discipline.
Article References:
Çakır, Z., Çatıkkaş, F., Türkmen, M. et al. Preservice teachers’ attitudes toward pedagogical humour: the role of physical activity, sociodemographic factors, and academic discipline. BMC Psychol (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-025-03751-4
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