The Difference Between Extrinsic And INtrinsic Learning

Briefly state the difference between extrinsic and intrinsic motivation. Which do you think is the most effective? Extrinsic: external, not inherent, not contained or included within, extraneous, Originating from outside. Extrinsic motivation (where we do things for rewards.) Intrinsic: adj. belonging to the real nature of a person or thing inherent. Intrinsic motivation (where we do things for their own sake.) When people are intrinsically motivated the reward for the activity seems to be part and parcel of the activity itself “” there is no reward separate from the spontaneous feelings and thoughts that accompany the activity, excited and involved. Intrinsically motivated behaviour is based in people’s innate need to be competent and self-determining, curiosity, exploration and play e.g. people who are intrinsically motivated are always excited.

When extrinsically motivated, people are working toward some external reward, maybe money, good grades, approval or status. The behaviour tends to be a means to some end rather than a part of the end, they do not stay motivated for long however; I find children with learning disabilities respond initially and are motivated by rewards best, it can be used as a transitional period if you like to get them motivated, to start, then they experience intrinsic motivation after some success and the need for rewards disappears.

Having experienced all three states, I would certainly endorse the most effective as intrinsic, however I certainly would not dismiss extrinsic motivation, it may not be as satisfying but never the less a necessary fact of life, that is very powerful in getting our needs met.

New Zealand Herald April 17 2001, a quote from MP Richard Prebble ” There is not a social issue from health to education to superannuation or employment that extra prosperity will not solve” I have read your section on “˜Wanting to Learn: MOTIVATION’ numerous times and yes I agree, page 40 in particular was of great interest as was the whole article (Active Learning) witnessed it all the time. The motives, goals and strategies the students develop in response to classroom activities depend on both the nature of the activities themselves and on how the teacher presents them. If students are motivated solely by grades or extrinsic rewards, they are likely to adopt goals and strategies that concentrate on meeting minimum requirements that entitle them to acceptable reward levels, they do what they must to prepare for tests then forget most of it.