Extrinsic rewards

Definition

Extrinsic rewards are tangible benefits or incentives provided to individuals by external sources, often to motivate specific behaviors or achievements. These rewards can take various forms, such as money, grades, praise, or recognition, and play a significant role in influencing learning and performance. The connection between extrinsic rewards and motivation is critical for understanding how external factors can shape an individual’s engagement and success in educational settings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Extrinsic rewards can enhance motivation and performance when used appropriately, especially in tasks that may not be inherently enjoyable.
2. Over-reliance on extrinsic rewards can lead to decreased intrinsic motivation, causing individuals to focus more on the reward than on the activity itself.
3. Different individuals may respond differently to extrinsic rewards based on their personal values, needs, and cultural backgrounds.
4. Extrinsic rewards can be effective in reinforcing desired behaviors, but they should be balanced with opportunities for intrinsic motivation to promote long-term engagement.
5. Educators can use extrinsic rewards strategically to encourage participation, effort, and achievement in a variety of learning environments.

Review Questions

• How do extrinsic rewards impact student motivation and learning outcomes?
  • Extrinsic rewards can significantly impact student motivation by providing tangible incentives that encourage participation and effort. When students are rewarded with grades, praise, or other benefits, they may feel motivated to engage more deeply with their learning. However, while these rewards can enhance immediate performance, they may also diminish intrinsic motivation if students start focusing solely on the reward rather than the learning process itself.
• Discuss the potential drawbacks of using extrinsic rewards in educational settings.
  • One of the main drawbacks of using extrinsic rewards is that they can undermine intrinsic motivation over time. When students become accustomed to receiving external rewards for their efforts, they may lose interest in the activity itself. This shift in focus can lead to a dependency on rewards for motivation, making it challenging for educators to foster a love of learning. Furthermore, if students feel that the rewards are unattainable or unfairly distributed, it could result in decreased morale and engagement.
• Evaluate the role of extrinsic rewards within the framework of self-determination theory and its implications for educational practice.
  • Within the framework of self-determination theory, extrinsic rewards must be carefully evaluated to ensure they do not hinder students' feelings of autonomy and competence. While these rewards can initially motivate students to engage in certain activities, if overused or misaligned with personal values, they may stifle intrinsic motivation and limit students' sense of ownership over their learning. Educators should aim to create an environment that balances extrinsic incentives with opportunities for autonomy and personal growth, promoting long-term engagement and deeper learning.

Related terms

intrinsic motivation:

Intrinsic motivation refers to engaging in an activity for its inherent satisfaction or enjoyment, rather than for some separable consequence.

operant conditioning: Operant conditioning is a learning theory developed by B.F. Skinner that explains how behavior can be modified through reinforcement or punishment.

self-determination theory:

Self-determination theory posits that people are motivated by the need for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, influencing their intrinsic and extrinsic motivations.