Motivation to Study

Often, we see two distinct types of 'hardworking' students: the motivated ones who try to make sense of everything that is presented to them and the ones who take in what had been taught to them regardless of understanding.


The difference? 


I suppose it is the interest to pursue what had caught the interest of the student while learning about the subject or topic, as compared to one who tries to 'handle' the subject or topic for a nearing examination. Whether there is a looming examination or not, the former pupil does not cease to seek out learning whereas the latter has a higher chance that he might.


One example of such a student whom I used to teach would make use of new words that had been taught during lesson in his daily speech and composition writing. Apart from grasping the meaning of these words, he dares himself to try applying it to a real life context and improve his level of English. Such an act displays interest in attaining and retaining useful knowledge.


Another student, perhaps perceived as more 'industrious' as compared to the previous mentioned, would focus her efforts on committing whatever she had learnt to memory, ready to regurgitate what had been memorised when an opportunity arose. She might have been a high flyer, thanks to her excellent memory, but this would only throw her into confusion as the knowledge taught becomes more complicated. Understanding is simply not present in the learning. 


Do these two students have the motivation to study? Yes, definitely! Outcome though, can turn out differently. In today's context, the motivation of the former student mentioned is more favourable but if coupled with the effort put in by the latter student, one would emerge to be someone with great calibre.


Let's reflect on our motivation to learn and acquire knowledge.




~ Learning, like teaching, is a work of heart ~