Self-Determination Theory and Learning

Learning TheoriesUniversity of Connecticut, TCPCG

Summer 2011

Self-Determination Theory

• Edward Deci & Richard Ryan

• Framework to study human motivation and personality

• Extrinsic motivation– Reward systems, opinions of others

• Intrinsic motivation– Interests, curiosity, core values

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic motivation and self-determination in human behavior. New York: Plenum.

“The interplay between the extrinsic forces acting on persons and the intrinsic motives and needs inherent in human nature is the territory of SDT.”

“SDT propositions also focus on how social and cultural factors facilitate or undermine people’s sense of volition and initiative, in addition to their well-being and the quality of their performance.”

High Quality Motivation

• Conditions that foster– AUTONOMY– COMPETENCE– RELATEDNESS

• Resulting in – ENHANCED PERFORMANCE– PERSISTANCE– CREATIVITY

BIG 3: Autonomy, Competency, Relatedness

• PRESENT: When all three needs are ongoingly satisfied, people will develop and function effectively and experience overall wellness

• ABSENT: When needs are thwarted, people more likely evidence ill-being and non-optimal functioning

SDT and Learning [self-study]

• THINK of an example from your experience as a learner (formal or informal) when you felt autonomous, competent, and connected to others.

• PAIR with your neighbor and share your stories.

• SHARE with the class the commonalities & differences in your stories.

Harness Your Students' Digital Smarts |

Edutopia

SDT and Learning [case study]

• Describe the interaction between Vicki Davis’ pedagogy and her students’ SD?

• Support your response with two examples of specific pedagogical practices you noted that may influence her students’ feelings of autonomy, competency, and relatedness.

• Formulate a theory to practice statement reflecting the relationship between pedagogy and students’ self-determination.

Connecting Concepts

• Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence (E.Q.)• Intrinsic Motivation• Extrinsic Motivation• “Hot cognition” • The affective domain (the role of emotion

in learning • “Baggage” • Pink’s autonomy, mastery, and purpose

Thank You

Prepared by GNA Garcia

University of Connecticut, Educational Psychology Faculty