Motivation? I have none, can i borrow some of yours?

Liu, Woon C., C.K. J. Wang, Oon S. Tan, Caroline Koh, and Jessie EE. "A self-determination approach to understanding students' motivation in project work." Elsevier (2008): 139-45. EbscoHost. Web. 5 Nov. 2008.

This article explores the role of autonomy plays in student achievement. The article explored project based learning, which has been introduced fairly recently to schools in Singapore. The author reports that these schools have noticed a tremendous increase in student investment as a direct correlation to choice. Under project based learning curriculum students get a choice in their creative outlet, and consequently are more invested in the work they are producing. This is one of the strengths of projected based learning because autonomy allows students to feel greater related to the work they are creating.

The article then goes on to explore the 4 different types of behavioral regulations. The article defines external regulation as behavior controlled by external means. Examples of behavioral regulation include rewards and punishments from others. So a teachers incentive policy and management system would be examples of external regulation inside of the classroom. Introjected Regulation is the second form of behavioral regulation, and it is defined as internally controlled behavior, such as acting out of a sense of obligation or guilt. The article suggests that this mode of behavior changes from student to student, but possibly having a large connection to one’s home life. Identified regulation is the third from of behavioral regulation which occurs when a student follows classroom norms out of choice or because of their own sense of values. Finally, intrinsic motivation is actions undertaken for to entertain or to invoke self-enjoyment.

After reading this article I realized the value choice can have on increasing student investment. I have noticed in the past whenever I give studetns a choice their investment and quality of work is much greater then when the assignment is choosen for them. Currently in my class we are teaching classification of organisms, and I plan on using the principles of autonomy to increase student investment right away. When I give students problems and ask them to classify organisms I will give them a choice of which groups of organisms they want to break up. Having students feel as though they are driving their learning project a great tool to use within the classroom and one I plan on incorporating more and more within my own teaching practices.