Extrinsic motivation

Definition

Extrinsic motivation refers to the drive to engage in an activity for reasons outside of the inherent enjoyment or satisfaction derived from the task itself, such as earning rewards or avoiding punishments. This form of motivation often manifests in educational settings, where students might work to achieve high grades, praise from teachers, or other external rewards, rather than out of genuine interest or curiosity about the subject matter.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Extrinsic motivation can be effective in encouraging students to complete tasks and achieve specific outcomes, especially when the tasks are perceived as challenging or less interesting.
2. While extrinsic rewards can enhance short-term motivation and performance, over-reliance on these external incentives may diminish intrinsic motivation over time.
3. Different teaching methods may influence the effectiveness of extrinsic motivation; traditional methods often emphasize grading and competitive rewards, whereas progressive methods may focus on collaboration and personal growth.
4. Research shows that when students are motivated by external factors, they may be less likely to engage in deep learning or develop a genuine interest in the subject matter.
5. Teachers can balance extrinsic and intrinsic motivation by using rewards strategically while fostering an environment that encourages curiosity and a love for learning.

Review Questions

• How does extrinsic motivation differ from intrinsic motivation in educational settings?
  • Extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards such as grades or praise, while intrinsic motivation stems from a student's genuine interest and enjoyment in learning. In educational settings, students motivated extrinsically may focus on achieving high marks or recognition rather than exploring the subject matter for its own sake. This distinction is crucial as it influences how educators design their curricula and teaching methods to foster deeper engagement.
• What role do rewards play in shaping extrinsic motivation among students, and how can this impact their learning experience?
  • Rewards serve as powerful tools in shaping extrinsic motivation by providing students with tangible incentives for their efforts. This can lead to increased engagement and task completion, but it may also result in a transactional view of learning where students only engage with material for the sake of reward. Understanding this impact allows educators to find a balance between rewarding achievement and encouraging intrinsic motivations, ensuring that learning remains meaningful beyond just external validation.
• Evaluate the implications of relying heavily on extrinsic motivation within traditional versus progressive teaching methods.
  • Relying heavily on extrinsic motivation in traditional teaching methods can lead to short-term compliance but may stifle creativity and critical thinking skills. In contrast, progressive teaching methods aim to cultivate intrinsic motivation by emphasizing student agency and collaborative learning. This evaluation highlights that while extrinsic rewards can be useful for initial engagement, a balance is essential; progressive approaches foster a deeper connection to content and promote lifelong learning skills that go beyond mere reward-based achievement.

Related terms

intrinsic motivation: The motivation to engage in an activity due to the inherent enjoyment or satisfaction it provides, rather than for some separable consequence.

rewards: External incentives given to students, such as grades or prizes, which can enhance extrinsic motivation and influence learning behaviors.

behaviorism: A psychological approach that emphasizes the role of external stimuli in shaping behavior, often focusing on rewards and punishments to reinforce learning.