Final answer:
Elaine's experience aligns with the behavioral theory of management, which considers individual motivations and values to effectively manage and motivate individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
Elaine’s assumption that students would be motivated by the pursuit of high grades, but then finding a difference in what actually motivates her students, is consistent with the behavioral theory of management. Elaine's experience aligns with the behavioral theory of management, which considers individual motivations and values to effectively manage and motivate individuals.
This view focuses on understanding the behaviors of employees (or students, in this context) and suggests that managers (or teachers) need to consider the individual needs, values, and motivations of their employees to effectively manage and motivate them.
Elaine's experience, where she motivated her students by showing them how extra effort could lead to better job opportunities, aligns with the principles of the behavioral theory, as it takes into account her students' individual desires and goals beyond just academic success.