Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation within the Context of Modern Education

Abstract

This chapter examines the implications of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation for modern education. The historical antecedents of these two distinct motivational sources will be highlighted and their implications discussed within the framework of contemporary education. More specifically, the focus of this chapter is on the importance of fostering motivation among students in modern educational spaces such as: gifted classrooms, inclusive settings, and technology assisted teaching spaces. Deci and Ryan's (2000) Self Determination Theory provides the theoretical lens through which this discussion is framed. Three basic psychological needs have been highlighted and explicated. These psychological needs - competence, autonomy, and relatedness are examined as catalysts that can be used to promote and maintain motivation in modern teaching and learning spaces. Recommendations are advanced on instructional practices that educators can use to create classroom environments that facilitate motivation.