external motivation
“Hi Mom, I’m going to start my homework before I play any Xbox this afternoon.” Ah, the dream statement. Unfortunately, homework time sounds a lot less like this, and a lot more like a war between many parents and students. … Continue reading
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I am frequently asked for evidence that internal control psychology/choice theory is effective. It’s a fair question. After all, if what I espouse doesn’t help us get to a better place, why would anyone want to learn about it and … Continue reading
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Alfie Kohn reviews some compelling research in a recent article, “Studies Support Rewards, Homework, and Traditional Teaching. Or Do They?” Kohn looks at three practices traditionally aligned with the carrot and stick approach to education: external rewards, homework, and direct … Continue reading
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Providing an external reward for learning is so pervasive that most of us never even consider the potential downside. In an earlier post – “Internal Motivation: Present from Birth” – I suggested that external rewards can actually interfere with learning. … Continue reading
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If you don’t know The Hunger Games just arrived in theaters, then you probably also don’t have… Read More
Albert Bandura may be most well known for his work on social cognitive theory and… Read More
When I conduct workshops for parents and educators and ask them, “Do you want kids… Read More
Throughout life there are many times when outside influences change or influence decision-making. The young… Read More
