Motivation

[Ray Dorso]

 

How often have you heard someone say a student isn't motivated?

How many incentive based programs have you implemented to encourage a student to engage or behave?

 

Personally, I have developed many; ranging from an individually based incentive chart to a school wide incentive based program (students earned points to shop in a school store loaded with items from pencils, football cards, basketballs, bikes, NFL jerseys, jewelry and so on).

 

I have seen these programs work and have long held the philosophy that students should rewarded for positive behaviors and have consequences for negative behaviors.

 

After viewing the clip linked below, I read Daniel Pink's book: Drive,The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us I have been forced to re-examine my thoughts on incentives and motivation.

 

Daniel Pink reviews why in most cases "carrots and sticks don't work" and discusses the importance of Autonomy, Mastery and Purpose (3 true motivators). Please note the book is about motivation, not motivation exclusively in the school setting. There is, however, a section for parents and educators and tons of general implications about how we as educators should consider when thinking about motivation.

 

I hope the link is active

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6XAPnuFjJc&feature=player_embedded

 

[Lorraine Maxson]

Watch the video.  It is excellent food for thought.  I will make myself watch this now and then--it'll sink in and I'll be able to change my approach with my students.....