Rewarding Systems: The Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Models

Once upon a time, not so long ago in fact, it was my thinking that an extrinsic reward-based system in teaching was a wonderful thing. Unabashedly I admit that I have spent countless hours in thinking up ways that I could 'reward' my students (for example passing out candy, certificates, ribbons, etc.) for their participation in my class and let them know that their efforts are appreciated. After all, rewarding behavior with tangible gifts or rewards is a good thing, right? Haven't we been brought up to appreciate rewards or recognition that has been brought our way due to achievement? I know that I have been, and as such it was my thinking that it was a great way to induce motivation in others. After completing the assigned reading for this assignment I have now come to a different conclusion and see that although extrinsic rewards have their due place in the role of reinforcement, that it is the intrinsic reward system that holds a greater place value in the role of educating our students.

There are positives and negatives to both theories, and in the best of the best scenarios the two theories can be combined into a complimentary fashion to promote motivation, but for the most part, in my new way of thinking, the positives of intrinsic rewards far outweigh those of externals and special attention should be given to them if we (the teachers) are to foster an environment conducive to learning in the classroom. In support of this statement, I will address the pros and cons of using reward systems and offer up my opinion on why I will now be altering my use of it in the classroom setting.