Learning Objectives and Theories of Motivation (McShane Ch. 5)

Which theory is associated with Maslow's needs hierarchy in the learning objectives?

• Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation

• Equity theory

• Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory

• Reinforcement theory

Answer explanation

Maslow's needs hierarchy emphasizes the importance of fulfilling basic needs before higher-level needs, which relates to intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in learning. This theory explains how motivation drives learning objectives.

What are human needs described as in the document?

• Innate and universal

• Goal-directed forces

• Temporary and situational

• Cultural and variable

Answer explanation

Human needs are described as 'goal-directed forces' in the document, indicating that they drive behavior towards achieving specific objectives, rather than being merely innate, temporary, or culturally variable.

What influences the formation of goals according to the document?

• Hardwired brain activity

• Self-concept, social norms, experience

• Primary source of motivation

• Internal equilibrium

Answer explanation

Goals are influenced by self-concept, social norms, and experience, as these factors shape our perceptions and motivations, guiding us in setting and pursuing our objectives.

What is the primary source of motivation in the context of human drives?

• Social norms

• Emotions

• Needs

• Goals

Answer explanation

Emotions drive human behavior by influencing our desires and actions. They serve as a primary motivator, guiding us towards fulfilling our needs and achieving our goals.

According to the text, what role do personal values play in motivation?

• They are irrelevant

• They transform drive-based emotions

• They hinder decision-making

• They are the sole motivator

Answer explanation

Personal values play a crucial role in motivation as they transform drive-based emotions, influencing how individuals respond to their desires and goals.

How do extrinsic motivators affect intrinsic motivation?

• They completely eliminate intrinsic motivation

• They have no effect on intrinsic motivation

• They may reduce intrinsic motivation, but the effect is minimal

• They significantly increase intrinsic motivation

Answer explanation

Extrinsic motivators can sometimes undermine intrinsic motivation by shifting focus from the inherent enjoyment of an activity to external rewards. However, this reduction is often minimal, allowing intrinsic motivation to persist.

What can strengthen or weaken needs according to the Learned Needs Theory?

• Self-concept, social norms, past experience

• Financial status, education, age

• Physical health, diet, exercise

• Weather, location, time of day

Answer explanation

According to Learned Needs Theory, self-concept, social norms, and past experiences can significantly influence the strength of an individual's needs, making this choice the correct answer.

What does the need for affiliation (nAff) involve?

• Seeking power for personal purposes

• Accomplishing goals

• Seeking approval from others, conforming to others' wishes, avoiding conflict

• Reinforcement and altering self-concept

Answer explanation

The need for affiliation (nAff) involves seeking approval from others, conforming to their wishes, and avoiding conflict, as it emphasizes social connections and harmony over personal power or goal accomplishment.

What theory suggests that needs can be learned through past experiences?

• Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

• Learned Needs Theory

• Two-Factor Theory

• Cognitive Dissonance Theory

Answer explanation

Learned Needs Theory posits that individuals develop needs based on their past experiences, making it the correct choice. In contrast, Maslow's and Two-Factor theories focus on innate needs and motivation factors, respectively.

What is Valence in the context of the Expectancy Theory of Motivation?

• Probability that a specific effort level will result in a specific performance level

• Probability that a specific performance level will result in specific outcomes

• Anticipated satisfaction from the outcome

• Effort required to achieve a specific outcome

Answer explanation

In the Expectancy Theory of Motivation, Valence refers to the anticipated satisfaction from the outcome. It reflects how much value an individual places on the rewards they expect to receive from their performance.