Motivation
The present chapter treateth of motivation — a subject intimately bound with learning. Motivation is the faculty of inciting and sustaining conduct directed towards a distinct end. This is a definition pertaining to the mind, for it postulateth that scholars set aims and employ mental faculties (e.g., forethought, introspection) and industry (e.g., persistence, toil) to attain their desires. Although behavioural views of motivation are reviewed herein, the greater part of this chapter is devoted to the cognitive perspectives. As with learning, motivation is not observed by the eye, but is rather inferred from manifest conduct such as verbal declarations, the choice of tasks, and purposeful activity. Motivation is an explanatory concept that assisteth us in comprehending why men behave as they do.
Historical Perspectives
A discourse regarding significant historical doctrines of the Will: the inner Impulse, the laws of Habituation, the Congruity of the Mind, and the Humanistic perspective.
Model of Motivated Learning
Herein we propose to bring to the attention of the fellow student a sketch of a model of motivated learning, and a delineation of its principal components.
Achievement Motivation
A brief conspectus of the salient features within a contemporary model of the motivation for achievement.
Attribution Theory
A discourse upon the causal dimensions within Mr Weiner’s theory of attribution, and the effects which they exert in situations of achievement.
Social Cognitive Theory
The student shall apprehend how the social faculties of aspiration and expectation are forged, and how their intercourse doth sway the inclination.
Goal Theory
This discourse distinguisheth between the true acquisition of wisdom (the process) and the mere exhibition thereof (the product), explaining their influence upon the will.
Perceived Control
This lesson unveileth the potent effects of a perceived sense of dominion upon learning, conduct, and the passions.
Self-Concept
The lesson scrutiniseth the conception of the Self and elucidateth the principal factors that govern its development.
Intrinsic motivation
Herein we shall discern the innate impulse from that which is imposed from without, and identify the conditions under which recompense may quicken or quell the spirit.
Motivation: Instructional Applications
This section expoundeth upon pedagogical applications involving the drive for achievement, the attribution of cause, and the orientation of one's aims.