Understanding the psychology of a student’s motivation to learn is an important aspect of effective teaching. Motivation is the driving force behind a student outcomes engagement, persistence and overall learning success and is shaped by cognitive, emotional and social factors.
Educators who study and understand the psychology of motivation can significantly enhance their ability to create enriching learning experiences. An online Master of Arts in Education – Teacher as Leader in Curriculum and Instruction program from Northern Kentucky University (NKU) elevates educators’ instructional knowledge, boosts education credentials and helps teachers apply new technology and teaching methods.
Motivation to Learn: From Theory to Practice
Malone and Lepper’s seven factors of motivation provide a valuable framework for comprehending what drives students to learn. These factors include challenge, curiosity, control, fantasy, competition, cooperation and recognition. Recognizing and leveraging these elements can make the learning experience more meaningful and enjoyable for students.
Exploring the three types of behavioral learning — classical conditioning, operant conditioning and observational learning — also contributes to a nuanced understanding of how students respond to various stimuli. By incorporating these insights into teaching practices, educators can tailor their approaches to suit the diverse learning styles of their students.
Theories of Motivation in Psychology
To understand motivation, knowing the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic theories is essential. Intrinsic motivation stems from internal factors, such as personal interest and satisfaction derived from the learning process itself. Extrinsic motivation involves external rewards or consequences, such as grades or praise.
Educators should aim to cultivate intrinsic motivation since it fosters a genuine love for learning that extends beyond external rewards. Recognizing and tapping into students’ interests and passions can go a long way in promoting intrinsic motivation. Understanding the role of extrinsic motivation also allows educators to use external factors strategically, providing additional incentives without overshadowing the joy of learning for its own sake.
Northern Kentucky University’s Preparation for Effective Teaching
Northern Kentucky University’s online Master of Arts in Education – Teacher as Leader in Curriculum & Instruction program prepares educators with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complex theories of student motivation. A key component of this preparation is the Learning and Motivation course, which focuses on the principles of cognitive psychology and brain research, aiming to enhance the learning and motivation of P-12 students. The insights gained from this class help with practical application in the classroom via adapting curricula, shaping learning environments and refining instructional strategies.
Graduates of this program will have a comprehensive understanding of psychological theories and practical strategies to foster motivation in the classroom. The curriculum emphasizes integrating new technology and teaching strategies into the classroom, developing more effective instructional approaches and evaluating how well the students are learning. Graduates of this program will also broaden their knowledge of the psychology behind improving teaching styles for P-12 learning and study the best instructional strategies for student success.
NKU’s online program is committed to preparing teachers to motivate students. By emphasizing the importance of motivation in the Learning and Motivation course, the program ensures that graduates are positioned to inspire and guide students on their educational journeys. As teachers study the psychology of motivation, they unlock the keys to fostering a love for learning that extends far beyond the classroom.
Understanding the psychology of student motivation to learn is indispensable for educators looking to create impactful learning environments. From understanding Malone and Lepper’s seven factors to exploring behavioral learning theories and distinguishing between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, educators will gain valuable insights into what drives students to learn.
Learn more about NKU’s Master of Arts in Education – Teacher as Leader in Curriculum & Instruction online program.
