Healing hearts: Laughter and learning

Background. Cultural values of Alaska Native people acknowledge laughter as good medicine. It is heard in their words and stories. Methods. To investigate how and in what ways laughter impacts learning from the learners' perspective, cancer education course evaluations were reviewed and a survey administered. Results. 94% (235/259) of Community Health Aides and Community Health Practitioners surveyed emphasized the importance of laughter to support adult learning. Written comments are grouped into three main themes: (1) supporting a comfortable learning community, (2) relieving stress, and (3) enhancing learning. Discussion. This study demonstrates the value and significance of laughter to support people in their learning journey.