Motivation is the driving force behind all human behaviour. In education, it is the internal compass that shapes how students respond to challenges, setbacks and learning opportunities. Whether a student persists through difficulties or gives up, often depends on their motivation. Students motivated by authentic interest or a strong desire to improve are more likely to pursue deeper understanding and engage meaningfully in learning. In contrast, when motivation stems only from external rewards or is absent (amotivation), we often demonstrate reduced persistence, lower engagement and compromised critical thinking skills.
Researchers have long explored the concept of motivation, offering different theories on what drives it. Some focus on self-belief and competence, others on goal orientation or the perceived difficulty of a task. In schools, one of the most recognised distinctions is between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. While intrinsic motivation is ideal, it is uncommon in formal educational environments. However, not all forms of extrinsic motivation are detrimental – students may be motivated by external factors for positive reasons, such as recognising how learning supports their future aspirations. Through continued engagement, extrinsic motivation has the potential to evolve into intrinsic motivation.
Motivated students exhibit enhanced positivity, creativity, resilience, and independence. They approach learning with heightened curiosity, perceive confusion as an opportunity for growth and pose more thoughtful questions. Such students are less prone to feelings of discouragement when experiencing setbacks and more capable of emotional recovery. Moreover, motivation fosters a sense of agency, empowering students to take ownership of their goals and educational journeys.
So, how can we cultivate motivation?
- Set Mastery-Oriented Goals: Encourage students to set goals based on learning and understanding (to master fractions), not just performance (to get an A).
- Encourage a Growth Mindset: Help students see intelligence and ability as malleable. Simple strategies like adding “yet” to statements, such as “I can’t do it, yet”, shift the focus to improvement and effort.
- Build Self-Efficacy: Offer ‘just right’ challenges - tasks that stretch students slightly beyond their current ability. As they succeed with support, gradually remove scaffolding to boost confidence and independence.
- Anticipate Setbacks: Share experiences of how facing challenges and demonstrating resilience are essential to growth. Model how to learn from these experiences to emphasise the power of perseverance.
Ultimately, motivation both drives and is driven by success. Students are more likely to invest effort in areas where they’ve succeeded before. Effective teaching—breaking tasks down, giving feedback, and providing practice—is key. When students experience consistent success, their motivation grows, leading to a powerful cycle of confidence, engagement, and achievement.
Mrs Anj Caldwell
Junior School Curriculum Leader