Using Thinking Skills to Intrinsically Motivate Effective Learning: An Observation from a Teacher Education Classroom

Using Thinking Skills to Intrinsically Motivate Effective Learning: An Observation from a Teacher Education Classroom

One of the most important factors that contribute to an effective teaching and learning environment is intrinsic motivation, which serves as a highly essential force for real and meaningful learning to take place. At the same time, becoming a skilful thinker and helping others to become one has emerged as a catchphrase among educators around the world. Consequently, teachers are expected not only to intrinsically motivate students to learn the curriculum content, but also to teach and encourage them to think skilfully. This paper attempts to explore, conceptually, the relationship between thinking skills, intrinsic motivation, and effective learning. Some qualitative observation from a teacher education classroom pertaining to thinking skills as intrinsic motivation for effective learning will also be presented. Finally, implications of finding for classroom teaching will be discussed.