FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which option provides intrinsic motivation for students?

1. Awarding extra credit

2. Curiosity

3. Competition with peers

4. Teacher praise

The correct answer is: Curiosity

Intrinsic motivation refers to the drive to engage in activities for their own sake, deriving satisfaction and enjoyment from the process rather than from external rewards. Curiosity serves as a powerful source of intrinsic motivation for students, as it compels them to explore, learn, and discover new concepts and ideas out of their interest and desire to understand the world around them. When students experience curiosity, they become more engaged in the learning process, seeking knowledge and experiences that satisfy their innate desire to learn. This internal drive results in deeper comprehension, enhanced retention of information, and a greater willingness to tackle complex subjects. In contrast, the other options focus on external incentives or competitive pressures that may not cultivate a genuine love for learning. For instance, awarding extra credit, while motivating some, relies on an external reward system. Competition with peers can create stress rather than foster a love of learning. Teacher praise, while beneficial and affirming, is still an external acknowledgment rather than a self-driven motivation like curiosity. Thus, curiosity stands out as the most compelling source of intrinsic motivation among the choices presented.