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In a perfect world, students would possess strong internal, or intrinsic, motivation to achieve their best futures. They would sit in rapt attention during class, excitedly completing reading and homework out of a pure desire to learn. A student’s level and source of motivation is unique to him or herIn the real world, students aren’t Stepford-like in their diligence. Their personal desires and motivations are as unique as they are. While a handful of students might have strong internal motivation to achieve academically, it is likely that their peers lack the motivation they need to excel. Teachers and parents want students to possess an intrinsic desire to master skills and knowledge. This goes along with the positive recognition of high-quality motivation. However, for many students, it is necessary to develop intrinsic motivation by first experiencing external, or extrinsic, motivation. Extrinsic motivation definedExtrinsic motivation is characterized by factors that are external to the self. The student is motivated to learn or achieve not by personal interest or desire for growth, but from a desire to please others by meeting expectations set by parents, teachers, or factors like a desired GPA. External motivation can also involve punishment and reward. Students might fear the punishment associated with getting a poor grade (whether it is the grade itself or discipline by parents) or desire the reward that comes alongside a high GPA. Either way, a students’ desire to learn doesn’t motivate him or her; instead, the incentive is the fear of failure or glow of success. The pros and cons of external motivation for studentsUsing extrinsic motivation to push students toward wanting to achieve can be effective, but it is also quite fickle. They can quickly lose interest in both promised rewards and punishment, forcing the stakes to be raised. If the reward system is removed, student motivation often declines as a result. Studies from the Mathematical Association of America and others show that providing students with extrinsic motivation can be problematic because the reward is the sole reason for participation. Once the reward is removed, interest diminishes entirely. Intrinsic motivation definedIntrinsic motivation, on the other hand, is characterized by a deep-seated interest in a topic and an understanding of its relevance. Students desire to learn not just to achieve a grade or earn a reward, but because they want to expand their knowledge. Students who are intrinsically motivated read for assignments, but also do so because they enjoy it and want to gain mastery of a subject. Strategies to foster internal motivationIntrinsic motivation can be difficult to foster in students since it stems from individual desires that vary from person to person. However, many teachers and parents use extrinsic motivation initially in the hopes that it will turn into intrinsic motivation. Teachers and parents can use these techniques to foster intrinsic motivation:
Combine internal and external motivation for an optimal outcomeResearch has found that optimal outcomes are achieved by establishing a balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Extrinsic motivation helps students become driven and competitive, while intrinsic motivation supports seeking knowledge for its own sake. Ultimately, fostering both types of motivation helps students develop good study habits and an investment in learning. Caitrin Blake has a BA in English and Sociology from the University of Vermont and a master’s degree in English literature from the University of Colorado Denver. She teaches composition at Arapahoe Community College. You may also like to readWhat is an example of extrinsic motivation in the classroom?Extrinsic motivation, according to Daniel Pink, is the use of external rewards (outside ourselves) to encourage a certain behavior. It can be punishments or rewards. For example, if a teacher gives out extra credit for children bringing in things to the classroom, this is extrinsic motivation.
What are some examples of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation?Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Motivation. What are examples of extrinsic incentives you might use in your classroom?Things like candy, stickers, a small toy, extra recess, and class parties are common extrinsic rewards used by elementary teachers. Secondary teachers also find candy a good reward and also use certificates, 'day off from homework' coupons, extra points, semester-end parties, or field trips.
What is intrinsic motivation in the classroom?Intrinsic motivation involves teachers providing choice, enabling students to set goals and investigate their interests and curiosities. Through the implementation of Rich Tasks, students are able to connect to the content and engage in learning.
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