Final answer:
Increased perceptions of autonomy are valuable as they align with self-determination theory and lead to intrinsic motivation, supporting students' active engagement and personal development in their education.
Step-by-step explanation:
When students understand what they're supposed to be learning and why, their perceptions of autonomy can increase, which is valuable because it aligns with the principles of self-determination theory. Autonomy, along with competence and relatedness, are key components that lead to intrinsic motivation, as outlined by Niemiec & Ryan (2009). A sense of autonomy enhances a student's intrinsic motivation, promoting a more active and willing engagement in their education, as they feel a sense of ownership over their learning process. When this happens, students are more interested and invested in the material, which can lead to improved learning outcomes and personal development. For instance, Hakim's experience in his Criminal Law course, where he has more control over his learning and receives respect and inclusion, is likely to lead to higher intrinsic motivation compared to the more intimidating and externally controlled environment of his Family Law course. This demonstrates the value of a learning environment that supports autonomy, competence, and relatedness. We gain a deeper understanding of this when we consider other psychological concepts such as self-efficacy, positive self-concept, and locus of control, where an individual's belief in their capabilities and the control they have over their own success play pivotal roles in maintaining motivation.