Perspectives and Strategies to Enhance Intrinsic Motivation in Classrooms.

Abstract

How do some students become excited about learning, while others do not? What strategies increase intrinsic motivation and when can these strategies be most effectively implemented? This paper seeks to explore how teachers can help develop intrinsic motivation through classroom practices and to examine the background behind these most effective strategies. It begins by defining intrinsic motivation and explaining its significance within the school setting. Next intrinsic motivation will be analyzed from three perspectives; the developmental perspective, the psychological perspective, and the pedagogic perspective. The developmental perspective illuminates developmental theories, where motivation stems from within the brain, and the continuity of intrinsic motivation throughout middle and high school years. The psychological perspective addresses several psychological theories of intrinsic motivation, followed by practical effective classroom strategies to help increase intrinsic motivation. The paper concludes with challenges in enhancing intrinsic motivation in the classroom. Before delving into the perspectives, the paper presents a formal definition of intrinsic motivation and its significance. (From Introduction).