What Motivates Students to Learn? Applications for All Classroom Levels

The Deans for Impact (DFI) (2015) report posed the question "What motivates students to learn?". This article examines strategies and interventions for each of the four cognitive principles presented in the report.  Within this paper, applications of the cognitive principles will be discussed at the elementary, secondary and postsecondary levels.  The techniques recommended in reference to belief about intelligence include collective goal writing, focus on ability to overcome setbacks, and reinforcing a growth mindset.  Techniques for self-determined motivation reviewed include Project Based Learning, creating academic competition, and the use of letter grades in college courses.  As teachers encourage students’ ability to monitor their own learning, this article reviews Socratic Seminar techniques, Question Answer Relationships, and reflective writing methods as possible strategies.  Finally, this article includes interventions to reinforce belonging and acceptance through Writer’s Workshops, the wise feedback technique, and creating social-norming related to struggles with fitting in

What Motivates Students to Learn? Exploring the Research on Motivation

The Deans for Impact Report (2015) posed the question "What motivates students to learn?". This article provides a more thorough exploration of the literature related to the cognitive principles of motivation outlined in this report.  Specifically, the authors examine literature related to the impact of motivation on student learning, including learning interventions and strategies.  This review of literature also adds to The Deans for Impact Report (2015) with research indicating the critical influence of extrinsic motivation on learning