Eustress (Productive Stress): This is a moderate, temporary, and manageable level of stress that is perceived as exciting or motivating. It is typically associated with a challenging but achievable goal.
LE Design Elements: Introducing a time limit for a quiz or performance task, framing a complex problem as a "Grand Challenge," or providing a minor, low-stakes consequence for a mistake can generate eustress and focus attention.
Distress (Counterproductive Stress): This is excessive, chronic, or overwhelming stress that is perceived as threatening or unmanageable. It impairs cognitive function, memory consolidation, and decision-making.
LE Mitigation: Reducing ambiguity in instructions, providing immediate and supportive feedback, breaking down large tasks (chunking), and ensuring a sense of learner control can help prevent distress.