8.1 Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation

Motivation drives our actions and learning. Intrinsic motivation comes from within, fueled by personal interest and enjoyment. Extrinsic motivation relies on external rewards or consequences. Understanding these types helps educators foster student engagement and achievement.

Self-determination theory highlights the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in motivation. By creating environments that support these needs, teachers can enhance students' intrinsic motivation and overall well-being. Strategies like offering choices and providing meaningful feedback can boost motivation in educational settings.

Types of Motivation

Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation

Top images from around the web for Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation

• 

  9.3 Differences in Learning and Motivation | Foundations of Education View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  11.4 Motivation for Learning – Theories of Individual and Collective Learning View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Intrinsic vs Extrinsic Rewards | Human Resources Management View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  9.3 Differences in Learning and Motivation | Foundations of Education View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  11.4 Motivation for Learning – Theories of Individual and Collective Learning View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation

• 

  9.3 Differences in Learning and Motivation | Foundations of Education View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  11.4 Motivation for Learning – Theories of Individual and Collective Learning View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Intrinsic vs Extrinsic Rewards | Human Resources Management View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  9.3 Differences in Learning and Motivation | Foundations of Education View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  11.4 Motivation for Learning – Theories of Individual and Collective Learning View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Intrinsic motivation comes from within and involves engaging in an activity for its own sake, because it is inherently interesting or enjoyable
  • Driven by personal interest, curiosity, or a desire to learn (solving puzzles, playing an instrument for enjoyment)
  • Associated with higher levels of engagement, persistence, and creativity
• Extrinsic motivation comes from external factors and involves engaging in an activity to obtain a reward or avoid punishment
  • Driven by external incentives, rewards, or consequences (studying to get good grades, working for a paycheck)
  • Can be effective in the short term but may undermine intrinsic motivation over time

Overjustification Effect

• The overjustification effect occurs when providing extrinsic rewards for an already intrinsically motivating activity decreases intrinsic motivation
• Offering rewards for activities that are already enjoyable can shift the perceived locus of control from internal to external
  • Individuals may start to attribute their motivation to the reward rather than their inherent interest
• To avoid the overjustification effect, rewards should be used sparingly and strategically
  • Rewards are most effective when given for activities that are not inherently interesting or when used to reinforce the development of new skills (praising a child for completing a challenging math problem)

Self-Determination Theory

Basic Psychological Needs

• Self-determination theory (SDT) is a framework for understanding human motivation and personality
• SDT posits that individuals have three basic psychological needs that must be satisfied for optimal motivation and well-being:
  1. Autonomy: The need to feel in control of one's own behavior and choices
  2. Competence: The need to feel effective and capable in one's activities
  3. Relatedness: The need to feel connected to and cared for by others
• When these needs are met, individuals are more likely to experience intrinsic motivation and positive outcomes (higher academic achievement, better mental health)

Fostering Self-Determination

• To support self-determination, environments should provide opportunities for choice, allow individuals to pursue their interests, and offer appropriate challenges
  • Teachers can give students options for projects or assignments, tailoring tasks to their skill level
• Feedback should be informational rather than controlling, focusing on progress and improvement rather than external evaluation
  • Coaches can provide specific, constructive feedback on technique and effort rather than emphasizing wins and losses
• Relationships should be supportive and nurturing, fostering a sense of belonging and connection
  • Workplaces can encourage collaboration and teamwork, creating a positive social climate

Motivation in Educational Settings

Strategies for Enhancing Motivation

• Reward systems can be used to incentivize desired behaviors and achievements
  • Token economies, where students earn points or tokens for meeting goals, can be effective in the short term (earning stickers for completing homework)
  • However, rewards should be used judiciously to avoid undermining intrinsic motivation
• Praise and feedback should be specific, sincere, and focused on effort and improvement rather than innate ability
  • Effective praise highlights the process and strategies used rather than the outcome (praising a student for their problem-solving approach rather than just the correct answer)
  • Constructive feedback helps individuals identify areas for growth and develop a sense of competence
• Goal setting involves establishing clear, achievable targets that provide direction and purpose
  • SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) are more effective than vague or unrealistic goals
  • Involving students in setting their own goals can enhance autonomy and engagement (having students set personal reading targets for the semester)

Creating Motivating Environments

• Classrooms and learning environments should be designed to support intrinsic motivation and self-determination
  • Providing choice and flexibility in assignments and activities
  • Offering appropriate challenges that stretch students' abilities without overwhelming them
  • Fostering a sense of community and belonging through cooperative learning and positive teacher-student relationships
• Teachers can model enthusiasm and passion for the subject matter, sharing their own interests and experiences
  • Connecting learning to real-world applications and students' lives makes it more relevant and engaging (discussing how math concepts are used in various careers)
• Emphasizing the value and importance of learning, rather than just grades or performance, helps students develop a growth mindset and focus on mastery rather than external rewards
  • Celebrating effort, progress, and the process of learning itself (showcasing student projects and achievements beyond just test scores)