Motivation is a complex subject. For students, it could be downright difficult. However, there are two key ways in which all of us experience motivation. 

Intrinsic Motivation Is…

Internal motivation for sake of personal achievement or enjoyment. They learn because they want to, not because they’re measured on their knowledge.

Extrinsic Motivation Is… 

External motivation to gain a reward or evade punishment, such as studying for an exam to get a good grade or to avoid reprimanding.

In theory, there is no right or wrong way to experience motivation. For short-term goals, extrinsic motivation can work well, but it falls short for long-term achievements because it creates the, “What’s in it for me?” mindset. By always using external motivators, the student will gain a dependency on them, which can lead to low self-esteem and lack of independence in learning when they can’t achieve the external reward.

Alternatively, when intrinsic motivation is felt, the results are much different and consistent. They complete their work because they want to, not for a sticker, gold star or to avoid reprimanding. When a student genuinely cares about their work, they will gain an increase in learning, independence and more successful goal accomplishments.

This distinction is extremely important when it comes to student’s feeling successful in their school work and achieving the goals they set for themselves. Extrinsic motivation isn’t bad and can be used well alongside intrinsic learning. As with all things, a healthy balance of both leads to the best success.

We at Progressive Centre can help your student to find ways to use both motivations to their advantage with online learning that will help your student to gain all the benefits of tutoring. Book your consultation today and let’s start motivating your student to do their best work.

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