Recently I read a book for a class I am
taking related to helping students with disabilities transition to college, employment
and independent living, it examined several aspects of self determination and
how it relates to positive outcomes for students with disabilities. Therefore, I was driven to read more about
Self Determination Theory as it relates to all individuals for this assignment.
Working in the education field I have had my struggles with students who lack
motivation in various aspects of their lives.
We try to get to the root of some students’ issues to help them move
forward and accomplish goals, but it seems like it is not enough at times. After reviewing the theory I chose I could
see the full circle of how motivation is developed and how it impacts an
individual’s quality of life.
Self determination theory (SDT) is a
theory of motivation and personality
developed by two psychologists, Edward Deci and Richard Ryan. This theory encompasses intrinsic and
extrinsic motivational factors that impact an individual’s psychological needs
and behaviors. Intrinsic motivation relates to an
individual’s natural drive to seek out challenges and possibilities because of
internal factors. Extrinsic motivation
relates to an individual’s drive to do something because of external forces. SDT
explains how individuals’ motivation relates to goal- direction and various
aspects of their lives. The theory
recognizes three innate needs for psychological growth: autonomy, competence
and relatedness.
Various
definitions of autonomy, competence and relatedness can be very extensive but
when it comes to motivation they are simply defined and one can see the role
they play in intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and well being of individuals. Autonomy is defined as the freedom of choice. Competence is the ability to perform well in
an activity or experience mastery. Relatedness is the desire to interact with
others or share an experience. Each of
these components may impact the well-being of an individual differently
depending on culture, experience and time.
Considering
Self-determination Theory is such a broad theory it is broken down into mini-theories
to better explain the different aspects of how motivation impacts an
individual’s psychological needs and well-being. Cognitive Evaluation Theory is based on the
intrinsic motivation, the ability to do something for your own self. Organism Integration Theory is based on
extrinsic motivation and how an individual internalizes extrinsic factors. Causality Orientation Theory is based on
individual differences. Basic
Psychological Theory is based on the fact that people need all three components
of Self Determination Theory: autonomy, competence and relatedness for the
development of their psychological health and well-being. Goal Contents Theory breaks down intrinsic
and extrinsic goals and how they serve different purposes in an individual’s
well being. One can see how each of
these mini-theories impact a n individual’s overall motivation, intrinsic and
extrinsic, which will in turn impact an individual’s goal-direction and
decision making.
As
an Intervention Specialist , self determination is a huge factor that impact’s
many facets of students’ lives as I prepare them for transitioning into
adulthood and post secondary institutions. Educators are now taking time to incorporate self
determination lessons into their weekly plans to increase students’ levels of
independence. Many of the activities evolve
around the use of technology. Many students with disabilities preparing for
post secondary options have an adequate level of computer skills. Students are utilizing the accommodations
computer applications offer to independently research, complete assignments and
collaborate with classmates. Having the
option to use technology to present information, take online classes or investigate
ideas provides students with a sense of control over what they are doing and
developing. Students are motivated by
what they are able to produce, which is not impacted by their disability or
viewed differently. Knowing that self
determination impacts so many aspects of a person’s well-being, having a high
level of independence using technology will definitely impact a student’s
motivation on various levels, whether it’s related to academic achievement or
becoming socially connected to others.
Deci, E., & Ryan, R.M. (2008).
Self-determination theory. Handbook of
theories of social psychology.
416.
Hartnett, M., St. George, A., &
Dron, J. (2011). Examining motivation in
online distance
learning
environments: Complex, multifaceted, and situation-dependent, 12 (6). The
International Review of Research in Open
and Distance Learning. Retrieved from
Michelle,
ReplyDeleteYour ideas backing your theory are very interesting. I agree with you that motivation is a huge part of success in the educational industry, and it is important that we, as teachers, work to instill this within our students. I do not know much about intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation, and I am anxious to learn more in order to further my knowledge as a future educator. Good luck with your work!!