FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)Human Behavior and Effective CommunicationEasy
A student pilot studies aerodynamics diligently, not because he finds the subject fascinating, but because he wants to earn a scholarship that requires a minimum written exam score. This drive to learn in order to obtain an external reward is an example of which type of motivation?
- ANegative motivation
- BIntrinsic motivation
- CExtrinsic motivation
- DPositive transfer
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Extrinsic motivation
Extrinsic motivation arises from external rewards or incentives, such as money, grades, or recognition, rather than from personal interest in the activity itself. The student's drive to earn a scholarship represents an external reward driving his study behavior.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Negative motivation typically involves fear of punishment or failure, not pursuit of a reward.
- B. Intrinsic motivation comes from internal enjoyment or interest in the subject, which is not the case here.
- D. Positive transfer relates to applying prior learning to a new task, not the source of motivation.
Extrinsic Motivation
Motivation that comes from external factors such as rewards, recognition, or avoidance of punishment, rather than internal interest or satisfaction.
- Contrasts with intrinsic motivation, which comes from internal enjoyment
- Common extrinsic rewards include grades, money, and certificates
- Can be effective short-term but may not sustain long-term engagement
Memory trick: 'Reward from outside' - extrinsic motivation is fueled by external prizes, not internal joy.