Intrinsic VS Extrinsic Value

Educators can promote the intrinsic value of learning by giving students real-world examples of individuals that make great sacrifices to reach their educational goals.  “When issues arise or the content is difficult, learners who are extrinsically motivated may have a harder time staying focused on their goal and overcoming adversities.” (Stavredes,pg.61)  My students and I had a conversation about who we consider a hero and why.  We focused on Malala Yousafzai and her struggles to attend school.  She faced harm and death due to Taliban edicts on education for women.  “I think of it often and imagine the scene clearly. Even if they come to kill me, I will tell them what they are trying to do is wrong, that education is our basic right.” (Peer, para. 6) Many students had never heard of her though she is their contemporary.  Their understanding of the value of education expanded as they compared their personal challenges with Malala’s.  Presenting students with examples of intrinsic motivation is the most effective way to encourage the philosophy that educational success carries intrinsic value.

Standardized testing and grades are counter-intuitive intrinsic motivation.  “People have to meet a standard to maximize rewards, and thus there is a strong tendency for these rewards to undermine intrinsic motivation.” (Deci, pg.5)  Even high performing students can become distracted and focus on their grades over the acquisition of skills and knowledge.  I try to emphasis that I am more concerned with students making an effort and learning rather than the focus of grades.  I think that identifying long-term extrinsic goals helps increase student understanding of intrinsic award.

Intrinsic	Extrinsic
Inside	outside
Learn for the sake of learning	Learn for reward
Self-motivated	Externally-motivated
Long-term	Primarily short-term

References:

Deci, E., Koestner, R., & Ryan, R. (2001, Spring). Extrinsic Rewards and Intrinsic Motivation in Education: Reconsidered Once Again. Review of Eduational Research, 71(1), 1-27.

Peer, B. (2012, October). The Girl Who Wanted to Go to School. The New Yorker. Retrieved from http://WWW-girl-who-wanted-to-go-to-school.html

Stavredes, T. (2011). Effective online teaching: Foundations and strategies for student success. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.