What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation?

Intrinsic motivation refers to the drive to engage in an activity for its own sake, originating from internal factors, such as personal interest, curiosity, or the satisfaction one derives from the activity itself. For example, a student may read a book because they find the story engaging and enjoy the process of learning, not because they expect any external reward for doing so.

Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, relies on external factors. This can include rewards such as grades, money, praise, or other incentives that motivate a person to engage in a task. When a student studies hard to achieve high marks or to earn a reward, their motivation is considered extrinsic because it is driven by outside influences rather than a personal desire to learn.

This distinction highlights that intrinsic motivation can lead to a deeper understanding and greater satisfaction, while extrinsic motivation may be more effective for short-term goals or tasks that are less inherently interesting to the individual. The recognition of these two types of motivation is crucial for educators in order to foster an environment that encourages both kinds based on the needs and contexts of their students.