Module 5

Motivation is very important in the classroom. We want our students to be excited to work towards a goal and work hard to complete a task. The biggest problem teachers face is finding that motivation and continuing it throughout the day. The biggest thing we as teachers want to avoid is amotivation, which is complete lack of any intent to act. On the other hand, we want our students to be seeking out the answer and looking for the challenge, which would be referred to as intrinsic motivation (pg.445). The last kind of motivation talked about in the chapter is extrinsic motivation, which refers to finishing the task, but for a different reason other than interest in the activity itself. After comparing and contrasting these, the most important motivator to look for is extrinsic, because it could be hard to identify. That student may be finishing the task, but with little effort and negative emotion towards it. We have to be aware of our students and their attitudes towards learning so we know they are doing their very best work.

                Some ways the book encouraged positive motivation was through rewards or incentives (pg. 446). I personally don’t think this is going to be the best way to increase motivation. Rewards can only go so far, and grades aren’t always important to every student. I agree more on the cognitive approach to motivation. It says that behavior is determined by our thinking and not by our rewards or punishments from the past (pg. 447). Motivation is determined from within and the individual’s own expectations and value of whatever goal is at hand. I think this is more realistic to believe, because like I said, not everyone is going to be motivated through reward.

                Each student has their own individual needs. These needs are made up of physiological, safety, love, esteem, cognitive, aesthetic, and self actualization (pg. 449). This was explained in a great way, and that was if these needs are satisfied, then there will be less motivation wasted on trying to fulfill them. This will then allow students to focus on what is assigned to them in school so they can stay motivated on that instead of worrying about other problems going on in their life. People want to be in control and if we give them that, then their motivation to succeed should increase (pg. 452). Giving students the sense of growth and control will help them stay on task and complete to the best of their ability.