A focus on intrinsic motivation leads to deeper and more meaningful learning from "summary" of The Schools Our Children Deserve by Alfie Kohn
When we talk about intrinsic motivation in the context of learning, we are referring to a student's natural desire to engage in an activity for its own sake, rather than for some external reward or punishment. This type of motivation is driven by a genuine interest in the subject matter or a personal sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering a challenging task. In other words, when students are intrinsically motivated, they are more likely to be curious, persistent, and deeply engaged in their learning. One of the key reasons why focusing on intrinsic motivation leads to deeper and more meaningful learning is that it encourages students to take ownership of their education. When students are motivated by a genuine interest in a subject, they are more likely to actively seek out information, ask questions, and explore different perspectives. This kind of self-directed learning not only allows students to deepen their understanding of a topic but also fosters critical thinking skills and a sense of intellectual independence. Furthermore, intrinsic motivation is closely tied to the idea of mastery. When students are driven by a desire to improve their skills or knowledge for their own sake, they are more likely to set challenging goals for themselves and persist in the face of setbacks. This kind of perseverance is essential for deep learning, as it allows students to grapple with difficult concepts, make mistakes, and learn from their experiences. In contrast, extrinsic motivation, which relies on external rewards or punishments, can undermine the quality of learning by shifting the focus away from the intrinsic value of the task. When students are motivated by the promise of a good grade or the threat of a punishment, they may be less likely to engage deeply with the material or to take risks in their learning. Instead, they may simply focus on completing the task to earn the reward or avoid the consequence, without truly understanding or internalizing the content.- Educators can create an environment that fosters a love of learning, creativity, and critical thinking. When students are intrinsically motivated, they are more likely to approach challenges with a growth mindset, view mistakes as opportunities for growth, and develop a lifelong passion for learning. Ultimately, by focusing on intrinsic motivation, we can help students not only achieve academic success but also become curious, engaged, and self-directed learners.
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