Finding Motivation to do Math
By Anna, Instructor
Each student has a different reason for coming to Mathnasium. Some need
homework help. Others want to fill knowledge gaps. Some want to challenge
themselves because they love math. No matter what the reason for a student
coming to Mathnasium, it is important that they are motivated to put in the
work and achieve their goals, so how do we motivate students?
Intrinsic Motivation. Some students are motivated intrinsically, whether
that be their interest in math or their desire to improve their skills. At
Mathnasium, we try to support students who are intrinsically motivated by
providing them with the material that they need and want to learn.
Extrinsic Motivation. For students that are motivated extrinsically,
Mathnasium has a reward system. After every page a student completes, they
get a punch on a card. Once the card is full, they are allowed to spend it
to “buy” a prize. According to a study done by Cornell, immediate rewards
are a beneficial way to increase interest in a task. By giving students a
reward (a punch) after every page that they do, Mathnasium is rewarding
students immediately for their work. The punch card system is a big
motivator for many students and earning punches helps them focus on learning
math.
Whether your student is intrinsically or extrinsically motivated, Mathnasium
is committed to finding a motivation system that works for each student.
Do you think that Mathnasium can help motivate your student to do math? Call
(262) 251-5600 or visit us at N78 W14569 Appleton Avenue, Menomonee Falls to
schedule a free assessment.