What is motivation?
Motivation is what makes us, as humans, do something. It’s the driving force behind all our actions; the energy and enthusiasm that keep us going, even in the face of adversity.
Motivation in education is what makes our students want to learn and achieve success. Examples include a child who puts in extra practice before a school concert – or a student who refines their IB Diploma Extended Essay in their lunch breaks.
Put simply, motivation is what drives our learners to act in a way that gets them closer to their academic and personal goals.
The two types of motivation in education
There are two common types of motivation in education: ‘intrinsic’ and ‘extrinsic’.
Intrinsic motivation
Intrinsic motivation is the drive that comes from within; a desire to do something out of enjoyment or personal satisfaction.
This is something that occurs naturally in young children. From smelling a flower to getting messy with food, toddlers want to know how everything works, feels, and tastes. It’s not until children get older that they learn to do something – like sit quietly at a table – to gain a reward or avoid a punishment (extrinsic motivation).
The importance of motivation in education
Motivation is a key driver in the learning process, influencing not just how much students engage with their studies, but also how effectively they absorb and retain information.
We know that motivated students are much more likely to enjoy what they’re doing, too. Motivation also provides the energy they need to be curious, seek out intellectual stimulation, and approach challenges with the expectation they’ll succeed.
In contrast, a lack of motivation in education is a barrier to academic success and personal growth. It can show itself through feelings of frustration and annoyance, hinder productivity, and have a negative impact on wellbeing.
How we motivate students to learn at NAIS Dublin
So, how do we keep students motivated at NAIS Dublin?
By personalising learning
We strongly believe in personalised learning. At every stage of their all-through International Baccalaureate education, your child will follow a tailored journey that embraces their unique interests, talents, and aspirations. This will ensure they’re doing what they love and learning in a way that works for them.
By creating an inclusive environment
Our school is a supportive place to learn, where students feel safe to express their thoughts and ideas. We encourage open communication and the respectful sharing of opinions, and embrace individuality. We also believe in calculated risk-taking, and let our students know that it’s OK to make mistakes. This motivates them to try new things, innovate, and be curious.
By offering life-changing experiences
Every student’s education is packed with motivating experiences, which reimagine learning in new and exhilarating ways. These include immersive trips, community service opportunities, co-curricular clubs, and Nord Anglia Education collaborations with The Juilliard School, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and UNICEF.
By setting clear goals
All our students work towards personalised objectives and goals. Across all age groups, learners benefit from regular opportunities to discuss their progress, work on areas for development, and adjust targets as needed. This helps each individual to carve their own unique pathway to success.
By creating a strong partnership with parents
To understand your child’s motivations, it’s vital we get to know them as an individual. One of the ways we do this is by building a great relationship with our parents. This helps us to identify and overcome any challenges, too.
Motivation tips for students
We know that motivation isn’t just about grades; it’s about instilling a lifelong love for learning. This means ensuring our students feel driven and positive about their education – including when they’re at home.
Here are a few motivation tips for students that you can use at home:
