In an educational context, which motivation is encouraged to promote a love for learning?

Intrinsic motivation is the correct response because it refers to engaging in an activity for its own sake, driven by internal satisfaction and personal fulfillment. When learners are intrinsically motivated, they find joy and interest in the subject matter itself, which fosters a deeper love for learning. This type of motivation leads to sustained engagement, curiosity, and the desire for mastery, making learning an enjoyable and self-directed process.

Furthermore, intrinsic motivation often results in improved retention of information and a greater willingness to tackle challenges, as learners are driven by their desire to explore and discover rather than by external rewards. This contrasts with other types of motivation, such as extrinsic motivation, which relies on outside rewards or recognition, potentially creating a dependency on external validation. Coercive motivation, which involves pressure or obligation, can diminish a student’s natural interest in learning. Transitional motivation, while less commonly defined, implies a temporary state of motivation that may not effectively foster a lasting passion for learning. Thus, promoting intrinsic motivation is key to developing a lifelong love of learning.