Motivation
Motivation is the process of initiating a conscious and purposeful action. It may be;
- Intrinsic: It comes from within the learner and the action is more immediate.
- Extrinsic: It comes into play when an incentive or goal is artificially introduced into a situation to cause it to accelerate activity.
Significance of motivation
Motivation helps in creating interest in learning. A teacher should find right type of stimuli in the individuals that will produce satisfaction in order that the interest of the learner shall be maintained long enough to master definite ideas or subject matter.
Techniques of motivation
- Need based approach: The needs may be physiological need, desire for security, desire for recognition, desire for new experiences, organic needs. Motivation will arise if it is need- based.
- Training to set a realistic level of aspirations: An individual should be motivated by considering the real ground of actions that can be carried out by him/her. For example, a person who attains 30 tons/acre of yield could be made to aspire for 40 tons/acre. Such a realistic level of aspiration would ensure slow and steady progress.
- Participation: The involvement of farmers in the programmes of agricultural change acts as a booster of motivation not only for the immediate participants but also for others.
- Use of audio visuals: The proper selection, combination and use of various audio visuals for the appropriate purpose will act as lubricants of motivation.
It is necessary to mobilize people for their active participation in the agricultural programs, and bring better results. Extension agents are the drivers of motivation to the farmers at all levels.