The Link Between Topic Work and Intrinsic Motivation

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between topic work, as a teaching and learning method based on the philosophy of open classrooms and pupil's motivation. Topic work, as a methodology emerged in our school after 1990's, to support democratization in the relationship between teacher and pupils. Topic work had a stretch in Elbasan’s schools for more than 8 years, while this methodology has a long story and has been adopted across European and American schools. In these countries, the method continues to grow in its popularity. In the beginning, this paper will describe the principles of topic work based on literature about this theme, and the role of motivation in the attitude of children towards school. The motivation, likewise is analyzed based on recent findings in the educational psychology field. Comparing the principles of topic work, with elements of motivation especially of intrinsic motivation, it will be concluded that topic work as methodology includes a lot of elements of intrinsic motivation. With the changing of curriculum demands, teachers can rely on this methodology to motivate pupils, to be closer to their needs and closer to recent developments in education policy.

DOI: 10.5901/ajis.2013.v2n8p311