Extrinsic motivation

Definition

Extrinsic motivation refers to the drive to engage in an activity based on external rewards or pressures, rather than from an inherent enjoyment or interest in the task itself. This type of motivation can come from various sources such as grades, praise, or other tangible rewards, and it often influences how individuals approach learning and behavior in social settings. Understanding extrinsic motivation is crucial as it impacts how individuals learn through observation, how they engage in educational contexts, and informs trends in learning research that examine the role of external factors in motivating learners.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Extrinsic motivation can significantly enhance performance when the task is perceived as boring or lacking personal significance.
2. Rewards such as money, grades, or praise can serve as powerful motivators, but they may also lead to decreased intrinsic motivation if overused.
3. In educational settings, extrinsic motivation can help students achieve short-term goals but may not foster long-term engagement or a love for learning.
4. Observational learning can be influenced by extrinsic motivation when individuals model behaviors that lead to positive outcomes or rewards.
5. Research shows that a balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation is essential for optimal learning and engagement.

Review Questions

• How does extrinsic motivation influence observational learning among peers?
  • Extrinsic motivation plays a key role in observational learning by driving individuals to imitate behaviors that yield external rewards. When a person observes someone being rewarded for a specific action, they may be more likely to replicate that behavior in hopes of receiving similar rewards. This demonstrates how external incentives can shape learning processes and influence the adoption of new skills or behaviors through social observation.
• Discuss the potential drawbacks of relying heavily on extrinsic motivation in educational settings.
  • Relying too much on extrinsic motivation in education can lead to several drawbacks. For instance, students may become overly focused on rewards such as grades or praise, which can undermine their intrinsic desire to learn. This shift can create a transactional approach to education where students only engage in tasks for the sake of obtaining rewards rather than for the enjoyment or value of learning itself. Over time, this might lead to decreased curiosity and creativity in academic pursuits.
• Evaluate the implications of extrinsic motivation on current trends in learning research, particularly regarding student engagement and success.
  • Extrinsic motivation significantly shapes current trends in learning research by highlighting the need for effective incentive structures that promote student engagement and success. As researchers analyze how external rewards influence learning outcomes, there is a growing emphasis on creating environments where extrinsic motivators are used wisely alongside intrinsic ones. This evaluation suggests that understanding how to balance these motivations could lead to improved educational practices that not only drive immediate achievement but also cultivate a lasting passion for learning among students.

Related terms

intrinsic motivation: The drive to engage in an activity due to personal satisfaction or interest, rather than external rewards.

reinforcement: The process of encouraging or establishing a pattern of behavior by offering rewards or consequences.

self-determination theory: A psychological theory that suggests people are motivated by a need for autonomy, competence, and relatedness.