Are your students intrinsically motivated?

Are students motivated by the desire to score high marks, called 'extrinsic motivation'? Or are they motivated by a genuine interest in the subject i.e. intrinsic motivation? 

Research has shown (Ref: Tools for Teaching by Barbara Gross Davis) that when children grow up being extrinsically motivated, they tend to always look outside of themselves for approval and as one grows up, this may not be always easy to find. But, when students are intrinsically motivated, they actually learn more and can apply the knowledge better, which in turn leads to self fulfillment and confidence. 

There are a few ways in which schools can improve intrinsic motivation:

• Shift emphasis from cut-off grades to providing customized, student specific, positive feedback ( I was delighted to see the CBSE adopt CCE and am a big supporter of this initiative)
• Allow student input and provide sufficient flexibility in courses, so students have a sense of control ( as being introduced by our PROJECT SIKSHA initiative)
• Change with the times. We are in 2013. Make your educational tools and techniques relevant and interesting.
• Listen to students. Let them have a voice and let it be heard. Teachers and Schools are here to help students not to control them.

I would love to hear your opinions. For private comments / questions, please email enquiries@jnccapital.org