Final answer:
Intrinsic motivation is based on internal feelings of satisfaction and enjoyment, while extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards or the avoidance of punishment. Intrinsic motivation is particularly important in educational settings as it can lead to better engagement and learning outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Intrinsic motivation is a type of motivation that is driven by internal feelings rather than by external rewards like money or prizes. This inner motivation comes from taking pleasure in an activity for its own sake, finding it rewarding or satisfying on a personal level. For example, if you engage in an activity because you find it interesting or enjoyable, such as reading a book for pleasure, that is intrinsic motivation. On the other hand, if an activity is driven by the desire to obtain a reward or avoid a punishment, this is known as extrinsic motivation.
Understanding the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation can be important in various fields, including education, where fostering a student's intrinsic motivation could lead to better learning outcomes. According to the research, students tend to be more intrinsically motivated when they feel respected and in control of their learning environment, as opposed to feeling pressured by strict evaluations or external rewards.
To further illustrate, in an educational setting, a student who studies out of curiosity and a love for learning exhibits intrinsic motivation. However, a student who studies to get high grades or earn a scholarship is motivated extrinsically.