GED Student Motivation & Engagement 2

Question 1

According to self-determination theory, which three basic psychological needs drive intrinsic motivation?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy, competence, and relatedness

Answer

Self-determination theory (Deci and Ryan) identifies autonomy (sense of control), competence (sense of effectiveness), and relatedness (sense of belonging) as the three basic needs driving intrinsic motivation.

Question 2

Which of the following is an example of an extrinsic motivator?

Accepted Answer

A student completes homework to earn extra credit points

Answer

Extrinsic motivation comes from external rewards or punishments — completing homework for extra credit is driven by an external outcome rather than genuine interest in the work itself.

Question 3

Carol Dweck's growth mindset research shows that students who believe intelligence is fixed tend to:

Accepted Answer

View effort as pointless when compared to natural talent

Answer

Students with a fixed mindset believe intelligence is a static trait — effort feels futile, failure feels threatening to their identity, and they avoid challenges that risk exposing their perceived limitations.

Question 4

The concept of 'flow,' described by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, refers to:

Accepted Answer

A state of complete absorption and enjoyment in a challenging task that matches one's skill level

Answer

Flow is an optimal psychological state of complete engagement in a task that is challenging enough to require full skill — too easy causes boredom, too hard causes anxiety, but the match point creates flow.

Question 5

Which classroom practice BEST supports student engagement according to research?

Accepted Answer

Meaningful, relevant tasks with student choice and collaborative elements

Answer

Research consistently shows that student engagement is highest when tasks are meaningful, personally relevant, include choice, and involve collaboration — connecting learning to real-world purpose and student voice.

GED Practice Test

GED Practice Test

GED Student Motivation & Engagement 2