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.
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