External regulation

Definition

External regulation refers to the process of motivating behavior through external rewards or punishments, rather than through intrinsic interest or personal goals. This form of motivation is driven by factors outside the individual, such as rewards, deadlines, or expectations set by others, making it less sustainable and often less effective in promoting deep engagement in learning. Understanding external regulation is crucial for recognizing how it impacts motivation and engagement in various learning environments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. External regulation often leads to compliance rather than genuine interest, which can hinder long-term engagement in learning activities.
2. Students who rely heavily on external regulation may experience increased anxiety and pressure due to their dependence on external validation.
3. While external regulation can be effective for short-term tasks, it may not foster a love for learning or promote critical thinking skills.
4. Effective use of external regulation involves balancing it with opportunities for intrinsic motivation to enhance overall engagement and learning outcomes.
5. Feedback and acknowledgment from teachers can serve as forms of external regulation that help guide students' learning behaviors.

Review Questions

• How does external regulation differ from intrinsic motivation in terms of its impact on student engagement?
  • External regulation differs significantly from intrinsic motivation in that it relies on outside factors to drive behavior, such as rewards or punishments. This reliance can lead to surface-level compliance rather than genuine engagement with learning material. In contrast, intrinsic motivation fosters deeper involvement and personal investment in learning, as students are driven by their own interests and goals. Ultimately, while both forms of motivation can influence student behavior, intrinsic motivation tends to result in higher levels of sustained engagement.
• Discuss the role of external regulation within the framework of self-determination theory and its implications for education.
  • In self-determination theory, external regulation is seen as a less optimal form of motivation that can undermine the fulfillment of essential psychological needs like autonomy, competence, and relatedness. When students are motivated primarily by external factors, they may feel less control over their learning experiences and may become disengaged over time. This framework suggests that educators should strive to create environments that support intrinsic motivation alongside the appropriate use of external regulation. Doing so can help foster a more engaging and supportive educational experience.
• Evaluate the potential long-term consequences of relying predominantly on external regulation for student learning outcomes.
  • Relying predominantly on external regulation can lead to several negative long-term consequences for student learning outcomes. Students who are motivated mainly by external factors may struggle with developing intrinsic motivation, leading to a lack of passion for learning and reduced resilience in facing challenges. This approach can result in shallow learning experiences where students focus solely on meeting criteria rather than understanding concepts deeply. Ultimately, fostering a more balanced approach that incorporates both external regulation and opportunities for intrinsic motivation can lead to healthier attitudes towards learning and improved academic performance.

Related terms

intrinsic motivation:

A type of motivation that comes from within the individual, driven by personal interest, enjoyment, or a desire to achieve mastery.

self-determination theory:

A theory of motivation that emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation and the psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

extrinsic rewards: Tangible benefits or outcomes given to individuals to encourage specific behaviors, such as grades, praise, or money.