Disclosure: Chat GPT was used in the making of this section. 

Summary:

Motivation is the driving force that compels an individual to act and pursue their goals. According to Deci and Ryan (2000), motivation is essential for human behavior as it provides the energy and direction to achieve desired outcomes. This concept is crucial in understanding how individuals approach work, relationships, and other activities. Research has shown that highly motivated individuals tend to perform better and experience higher levels of well-being and satisfaction. There are 2 different types of motivation intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation. 

Intrinsic motivation refers to the drive that stems from personal interest or enjoyment in a task, while extrinsic motivation stems from external factors such as rewards or consequences. A study by Vansteenkiste, Simons, Lens, Sheldon, and Deci (2004) found that individuals who were intrinsically motivated to engage in a task reported greater satisfaction and performance compared to those who were extrinsically motivated. This highlights the importance of fostering intrinsic motivation in individuals to improve their overall engagement and performance.

Classroom Connection:

One of the key factors in motivating students is creating a positive and supportive classroom environment. Students feel more motivated when they believe their opinions are valued and respected. Teachers can encourage this by promoting open discussions, active listening, and providing constructive feedback. Recognizing and praising students' efforts and achievements, both big and small, helps foster a sense of accomplishment and motivates them to continue their efforts.

Research has found that peer support and social comparison can have a significant impact on an individual’s motivation. A study by Karahanna, Straub, and Chervany (1999) found that individuals who received support from their peers were more motivated to complete a task compared to those who did not receive support. Social comparison, on the other hand, can either increase or decrease motivation, depending on the individual’s perception of their performance relative to others. Therefore, it is crucial to provide individuals with a supportive environment and encourage positive comparisons to foster motivation in the classroom. This can be done by creating a positive classroom environment and designing activities that encourage students to work in groups or pairs. 

Another key factor in creating intrinsic motivation is learning about students and what they enjoy and then incorporating those things into the classroom and learning activities. Having learning experiences that are engaging and enjoyable for students can help students be more motivated to participate and put forth their best effort. Making connections can also be beneficial, when students see a real-world application to the things they are learning they will care more about the content and therefore be more motivated to learn. As humans, we are motivated by the things that matter most to us. 

ZPD: 

Zone of Proximal Development plays a crucial role in motivation. Zone of Proximal Development is the range of tasks or skills that are too difficult for a learner to achieve alone but can be accomplished with appropriate support. When students are too challenged and a task is too difficult students will become discouraged and this will greatly decrease motivation. Teachers must create activities within students' ZPD so that they are in the perfect learning zone where they are challenged but still have the confidence and motivation to persevere. 

Quiz Questions 

What is the main driving force behind intrinsic motivation?

1. rewards and punishments
2. personal interests and values
3. external expectations and obligations
4. social pressure and competition

Which of the following is NOT considered an extrinsic motivator?

1. Money
2. Recognition
3. Power
4. Personal enjoyment

Select all that are examples of Extrinsic Motivation

1. Buy one, get one free sale
2. Getting a paycheck after working a long week
3. Playing a sport because you enjoy it
4. Helping someone else for the sake of seeking praise

Sources and further reading 

Motivation TED talk:  https://www.ted.com/talks/dan_pink_the_puzzle_of_motivation?language=en 

Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/0003-066X.55.1.68

Vansteenkiste, M., Simons, J., Lens, W., Sheldon, K. M., & Deci, E. L. (2004). Motivating Learning, Performance, and Persistence: The Synergistic Effects of Intrinsic Goal Contents and Autonomy-Supportive Contexts. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 87(2), 246–260. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/0022-3514.87.2.246

Karahanna, E., Straub, D., & Chervany, N. (1999). Information Technology Acceptance across Time: A Cross-Sectional Comparison of Pre-Adoption and Post-Adoption Beliefs. MIS Quarterly, 23, 183-213. http://dx.doi.org/10.2307/249751