Motivation:
1. How might you enhance motivation and affect your students using the theories of motivation?
I would incorporate multiple motivational theories in my classroom to try to push my students to their fullest potential. I believe that choice is important for a student to grow and learn. For example, I believe cognitive theories will enhance motivation by encouraging each student's creativity. i would encourage their strengths by asking questions that may spark their individualism and room for thought. I would let them know what is expected for a good grade, and what they can easily do to obtain a grade they want. I believe that giving a student a "choice" (whether it be an assignment, book, idea, game, etc.) at times will allow them to choose what they are more comfortable and excited about.
Another theory I believe will enhance motivation is humanism. I would hope that as a teacher, I could get to know each of my students well enough to know what gets them going. I would give them opportunities to express themselves, alone, or in front of the class. I believe this will allow them to feel comfortable with me and their peers, and also feel valued and unique. Along with our class discussion about goals and Affective Domain, I think it would be fun to motivate my students by finding out their goals and what encourages them to do their best. Letting them know that they are working towards their goals in their school work, will hopefully push them to be avid learners.
I would also hope to encourage parent involvement with their children and their work. Having a parent's approval of their work, and encouragement, will let a child know that multiple people receive satisfaction from their work.
2. Which theories of motivation are most helpful and instructive for you?
I believe the social cognitive skills work best for me in my adult years. As a young child, I did see the approval of my parents and teachers. It made me feel successful and proud whenever I would receive praise on my work. I tried to work my hardest to please others. On the other hand, it also made me happy to receive good grades. It was an important part of my life, and I think my parents knew that if I had that satisfaction as a young child, then I would also feel that as an adult. As a college student, I have become more motivated by myself. I give myself certain goals to meet, and without even having to think, I know that making good grades is a part of my expectations. I always strive to be the best I can be, and I know my strengths and weaknesses. I know that putting in hard work will result in good grades.
Shelby,
ReplyDeleteI really like the theories you chose that would be most useful to instill in your classroom setting. I think it is interesting that, although we could all benefit from every theory, there are ways in which we would each utilize these theories in our classrooms differently depending on the subject area of teaching. We ended up thinking that a few theories would be best for our classrooms that were the same, but how you would use them to help you is completely different then how I would use them. This is great because we can learn from each other and understand how from one subject area/grade level to the next these theories are significant.