Why is motivation important for learning?
Motivation is an important determiner of learners’ active involvement and attitude toward learning, both of which facilitate deep mental processing of information. “Instructors know that student learning and memory are closely tied to motivation. Students will learn what they want to learn and will have great difficulty learning material that does not interest them” (McKeachie, 349). Motivation results from a combination of extrinsic (external) and intrinsic (internal) factors. “Extrinsic incentives work more quickly and powerfully; intrinsic interests are slower to motivate new behavior and less certain of being effective, but are usually more lasting” (Lowman). Empirical research in motivation has produced some practical applications: In order to remain interested in learning, students must feel challenged and must receive feedback on their progress. Giving students an opportunity to choose learning activities increases internal attraction. Cooperative learning promotes intrinsic inf
