Extrinsic Motivation methods
I have often wondered if small gifts or even food/candy could come across as condescending or insulting to the adult learner? My contention is that if we use these type of motivators, present it light heartedly, perhaps by saying "let's take a break and have some fun with food!" What do you guys think? I also wonder if what it says about a student if they are not intrinsically motivated? It seems to me that more successful students are intrinsically motivated?
Chip
Leslie, much like the greatest sound anyone can hear is the sound of their own name, the next highest sensation is knowing you have been heard. This is not only true in issuing a favorite candy bar but also in how course materials are delivered. Now that you have a great attention grabber, take it to the next level and get to know how your students would like knowledge delivered to them and take appropriate actions. Be attentive to their needs as students as well as their interests in different rewards. Great post and keep us informed of your progress.
James Jackson
When I first get a group of students I ask their favorite candy during our get to know you portion and without them knowing I make notes about who liked what. Then in our first review session when they won a prize they got their favorite. After that they just grabbed out of a bag but they seemed to like that I made an effort to remember what they liked. I have never found a student to turn down candy. Although I have also seen people recommending have some sugar free or use a variety of prizes in case of allergies or other dietary concerns.
Chip, I saw your post and immediately thought how this could be related to our school's policy (since we work at the same place). As you know, the Dean of Student's office hands out muffins to all the student body on the second day of each six week term. I know the student response to him is very receptive and nobody seems too insulted to take a muffin when they are passed around. In fact, students often stop him in the hall and want to know when the next muffin day will be.
I think that at this campus, the many activities that the school provides (mostly eating activities)not only serve as extrinsic motivation for our student body, but also help these learners who often come to us with many insecurities, to develop their level of intrinsic motivation and to feel more secure in their quest for a successful school experience.
Chip, great topic. My first thought is to discuss with your students. If not directly with your students in your own classroom, perhaps pool some random students that is representative if your classroom demographics and get a better feel for their thoughts. Another approach is just as you mentioned, use it as a fun classroom exercise where everyone gets something for their participation and then ask for feedback on how the students felt about the exercise.
James Jackson
