Motivation in Online Education

Abstract

This paper presents basic principles and theories of motivation, attempts to provide a better understanding of the concept, and explores the role motivation plays in learning. Basic theories of motivation are reviewed including: Freud's belief in motivation by the id, unconscious forces, and sexual stages; Jung and Adler's belief that people are motivated most by striving for future goals; Horney's theory that people are motivated by needs arising from anxiety; McDougall's belief that humans are motivated by instincts; Skinner's behaviorist theories that motivation comes from the environment; Hull's behaviorist theory that humans are motivated by drives; and Maslow's theory that people are motivated as needs are fulfilled. Theories on the following aspects of motivation are discussed briefly: locus of control, attribution theory, intrinsic motivation, need for achievement; motivation and the personality; motivation according to age; the teacher's role in motivation; encouraging the student; stimulating the student; the student's self-concept; and the parents' role in motivation. (LL) Résumé :