Self-Determination Theory (SDT) posits that humans have three innate psychological needs that drive motivation: autonomy, competence and relatedness. When these needs are met, students are more likely to be intrinsically motivated, leading to greater engagement, persistence and learning.
So how do you foster an autonomy- supportive learning environment? A curriculum that seeks to enhance self-determination skills may include activities that develop skills in goal setting, planning, evaluating and monitoring, and choice making. Fostering social, emotional and cognitive competence, including building self-efficacy and self-identity, can also reinforce the cultivation of self-determination.
Research shows that, in addition to a teacher autonomy-supportive style in the classroom, parenting styles and cultural and social contexts (including schools) also play a role in contributing to a young person’s self-regulation and motivation.
For further insight into the research on strategies that promote self-determination in an educational context, learn more here.
