Competition As Motivation

A day after the superbowl, it is easy to see how competition is a very strong motivator. At school, when it comes to academics (not sports), is there a place for competition? I say yes, on every level, as long it is used along with teaching how one is a good winner, as well as a good loser. I do not subscribe to “all kids” win. Sure, there are times when all students should be acknowledged for their hard work and efforts. You cannot have competition unless you have participation. Students can be motivated by classroom level, school level, district level, community level, regional level, state and national level competitions. Although there are just too many to name, a few come to mind quickly: Math and Science Olympiads, Nature, Geography and Math Bowls, Science Fairs, Lego Competitions, Spelling Bees, and countless Essay Competitions. Awards can be intrinsic (knowing they did a great job), and/or extrinsic (ribbons, trophies, and awards). An important thing to remember, is to use competition in a positive constructive manner, which will give students a reason and buy-in to encourage them to learn concepts that will later help them in life.

Finding Motivation

I often hear teachers discussing the concerns of extrinsic rewards. How the student needs to do the activity, assignment or projects and just feel good about it (intrinsic reward), and they shouldn’t have to give them anything else. My response is this: Why do adults get extrinsic rewards, often rewarding themselves, but yet children/students, have to “feel good about their work” without rewards? Usually the response is, I don’t have extrinsic rewards….Oh yes, you do…that “mocha latte, the paycheck, the nice car, the new “gaget”, the lastest phone, the vacation “you need”, and on and on. Bribing the student “if you get this done, you will receive that” is a different arguement, and not for this post. Just be aware, that everyone has a “modiva” (a motive), and finding what motivates your students, even if it is extrinsic reward, is a valid way to promote students participation.