Motivation is a critical issue when it comes to effective learning. Naturally, it is human nature to invest more time and effort into endeavors that we find stimulating or interesting. Motivation is certainly not the only component required for efficient study though it is a key factor.

Young learners present a challenge in that they are often not intrinsically motivated to accomplish the tasks set for them by the adults directing their education. It is further unrealistic to expect young students to respond to or identify with the same motivational factors that adults react to.

Children are blessed with a natural curiosity about the world around them, and it is this intrinsic quality that we as teachers should strive to tap into, foster and channel towards the learning goals that are set out in the students’ curriculum.

Consider the following examples. If a task is set that relies purely on a result such as achieving a certain grade, and the grade turns out to be less than the student expected it to be. Then there is a good deal of disappointment involved for the student, resulting in self-doubt and inevitably a decreased willingness to put in either an equal or greater effort for the next grade based task.

However, if a student completes the same task in order to quench his or her curiosity and receives an average grade accompanied by the approval and encouragement of their teacher, then they would have taken in at least as much though probably more retainable information than the student in the first scenario. It is also highly likely that the student would put in an even greater effort of their own accord when the next task is presented.

From the examples given above it is plain to see which of the approaches would be most beneficial to students. There are several well documented methods of achieving this kind of intrinsic motivation.

In closing; students who experience learning while motivated intrinsically learn to deal with any failures along the way as positive lessons in themselves and have the confidence to use them as stepping stones on the road to personal and scholastic success. Learning then becomes a process of discovery that builds and nurtures itself.

南海校區
P Class
TD Ziggy