Motivation Post #1

                Module 15 introduces the idea of motivation. It begins by explaining the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. The difference has to do with rewards. The student who is intrinsically motivated sees the activity itself as its own reward. The extrinsically motivated student is driven by rewards outside of the activity, such as grades, approval, or free time. Praise is another key concept of motivation. This module talks about the power praise can have. It is important to be intentional and sensitive in how and what we praise.

                I was wondering what factors have been shown to improve intrinsic motivation among students.

                The content of this module is closely related to learning theory. Many of the concepts can be found in the Behaviorism Theory. Rewards are seen as motivation in both this module and in Behaviorism. However, this module on motivation takes into consideration the implications of using rewards and praise with children, while Behaviorism is only concerned with external behaviors and not the long term condition of the child.