Intrinsic motivation depends on the fulfilment of three basic psychological elements: autonomy, competence and connectedness. From the need for autonomy, students would like to feel that they perform a task of their own choice and interest. Rashmi Kusurkar (et al, 2011), professor at the AmsterdamUMC, compiled 12 tips for teachers on this subject. For in-depth explanations per tip, please download the original source (Kusurkar, R. A., Croiset, G., & Ten Cate, T. J. , 2011): Twelve tips to stimulate intrinsic motivation in students through autonomy-supportive classroom teaching derived from self-determination theory. Medical Teacher, 33(12), 978–982.
Tip 1: research and nurture your students' needs
To intrinsically motivate students, it's crucial to identify their educational needs, such as the desired structure and learning methods, and then use these insights to adapt the curriculum, such as organizing case-based lessons.
Tip 2: use their own feelings as motivation
External stimuli like exam requirements can motivate students, but internal stimuli such as personal interest are more effective for engagement and effort; therefore, it's better to encourage students' intrinsic curiosity and feeling of wonder.
Tip 3: stimulate active participation
Encourage active participation from all students during educational meetings by using an interactive arrangement of chairs and tables and employing engaging teaching methods.
Tip 4: give students responsibility for their own learning process
Research shows that students are more motivated when they take greater responsibility for their own learning, which can be encouraged through active teaching methods and clear communication of expectations by the instructor.
Tip 5: offer structured guidance
Giving students more responsibility doesn't mean that the teacher takes a passive role; finding a good balance between guiding students and bringing in one's own expertise, combined with support for autonomy and well-structured lessons, leads to the best learning outcomes.
Tip 6: offer optimal challenges
Optimal challenges – not too hard, not too easy - increase students' intrinsic motivation by providing competence and space for optional participation and additional skills.
Tip 7: give positive and constructive feedback
Provide students with both positive and constructive feedback during the learning process to help them understand the gap between their current understanding and the desired level. Encourage students to share what went well and what can be improved.
Tip 8: provide a safe learning environment
Create a safe learning environment by fostering a positive atmosphere where students feel free to express their feelings and questions. Positive interactions with you as the teacher boost students' interest in the subject and their sense of connection, enhancing motivation
Tip 9: make sure the students feel heard
Listen patiently and empathetically to students when they express dissatisfaction with a topic or teaching method. Their feelings matter, and their constructive feedback can influence aspects of education, promoting motivation.
Tip 10: actively communicate the value of ‘boring’ activities
Not every student finds every lesson equally engaging, but low motivation can also affect peers negatively. To boost motivation, clarify the value of activities and connect them to students' lives, making their motivation more intrinsic.
Tip 11: provide options
To promote autonomy, offer students choices in things like topic sequencing, the type of products they create, or their information sources. Involving them in course planning enhances their sense of ownership and connection, leading to increased motivation.
Tip 12: watch out for controlling language
Teachers who use controlling language often restrict students with phrases like 'you must learn this' or 'this is mandatory.' Shifting to a more suggestive approach allows for greater autonomy and strengthens intrinsic motivation, such as saying: 'You can learn this,' or 'Reading this text may help you understand this topic better’.
Want to know more about Rashmi Kusurkar? Read the interview on her oration for VU EduNews & Stories.
Source
Kusurkar, R. A., Croiset, G., & Ten Cate, T. J. (2011). Twelve tips to stimulate intrinsic motivation in students through autonomy-supportive classroom teaching derived from self-determination theory. Medical Teacher, 33(12), 978–982.