It's not Intrinsic, but it's Inspired!

Is Intrinsic Motivation better than Extrinsic Motivation?

These days education seems to be all about intrinsic motivation. We shouldn't give out stars or stickers or small gifts to encourage students to achieve. We all know that this is superficial extrinsic motivation when it is intrinsic motivation that leads to embedded success. I agree of course and know it is good to 'want to do well' without any external gratification, but is there really any harm in a little bit of bribery to get things going in the right direction? I wonder how often on a day to day basis we do resort to bribery to get not only our students, but also our peers and family and friends, to do what we would like them to. Personally, I am a shameless briber and use extrinsic motivation a lot.  Whether it is the promise to my husband of a free afternoon on the golf course away from the family, if he does the shopping first; or a trip to the cinema if home-learning is completed without any fuss, I am more than happy to use bribery and a reward to get the outcome I desire!

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