Motivation is a complex topic that has been studied by psychologists for many years. There are many different theories about what motivates people, but there is no one agreed-upon definition. In general, motivation can be thought of as the driving force behind our behaviour. It is what gets us up in the morning and keeps us going throughout the day.

There are two main types of motivation: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic motivation is based on external factors, such as rewards or punishments. Intrinsic motivation derives from internal factors, such as interest or enjoyment. Extrinsic motivation can effectively drive behavior in the short-term, but it may not sustain in the long-term. Intrinsic motivation is more sustainable, but it can be difficult to create.

Many factors can motivate students, including:

Interest: When students have an interest in the material they are learning, they are more likely to be motivated.
Challenge: Being a great teacher involves challenging pupils on their beliefs and misconceptions, providing room for thought and reasoning.
Autonomy: Increasing motivation can be achieved by giving learners more control over their learning process.
Relevance: Students perceive material as more motivating when they can relate it to their everyday lives.
Clear goals: Setting clear and achievable goals can motivate students to work towards achieving them. Giving them a sense of purpose and direction.
Feedback: Providing regular feedback on their progress can motivate students to continue working towards their goals. Positive feedback reinforces good behavior, while constructive feedback helps students improve.
Social interaction: Students find motivation through social interaction, particularly when they interact with peers and teachers. Collaboration and group work fosters a sense of community and belonging, which can be motivating.
Rewards and recognition: Students can be motivated by offering rewards or recognition for their good work. Your praise goes a long way.

How do you motivate yourself and your students? We would love to hear about your own effective techniques in the comments section below.

This article was written by the TeacherHaven team, help us support education by contributing to our blog, email us at info@doceoconsulting.co.uk