Project – EFFECT OF MOTIVATION ON THE GROWTH OF EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1. Background to the Study
Motivation is a critical component in preserving quality human resources and life of any institute that values progress and innovations in work place especially in the academia. In academia, motivation is among the cornerstones for a healthier school. Motivation has been perceived differently by different researchers in the field of education. Motivation involves a number of psychological factors that start and maintain activities towards the achievements of personal goals and refers to reasons that underlie behaviour that is characterized by willingness and volition. Motivation in education can have several effects on how students learn and their behavior towards subjects matter (Leedy, & Ormrod, 2001).
Motivation is a critical factor in the educational landscape, significantly influencing student engagement and achievement in Nigeria. According to Aremu and Sokan (2003), intrinsic and extrinsic motivation directly impact students’ academic performance and overall educational experience. Their study emphasizes that students who possess high levels of intrinsic motivation—driven by personal interest and curiosity—tend to engage more deeply with their studies, leading to improved outcomes. Conversely, extrinsic motivators, such as rewards and recognition, can also play a vital role in enhancing student performance, particularly in a competitive educational environment like Nigeria’s.
The role of teacher motivation in Nigeria’s educational system is equally significant. A study by Okwor and Okwor (2018) highlights that motivated teachers are more effective in delivering quality education, which directly affects student success. The authors argue that when teachers feel supported and recognized for their efforts, they are more likely to adopt innovative teaching methods and foster positive classroom environments. Furthermore, motivational factors such as professional development opportunities and job satisfaction are crucial in retaining skilled educators, thereby promoting stability and growth within the educational system (Okwor & Okwor, 2018).
In the context of Nigerian educational policies, motivation emerges as a central theme in addressing systemic challenges. Ofoegbu (2004) points out that inadequate motivation among teachers can lead to low morale and high turnover rates, which adversely affect student learning outcomes. He emphasizes the need for policymakers to create supportive frameworks that promote teacher motivation through improved salaries, benefits, and working conditions. This, in turn, can lead to a more committed workforce, ultimately benefiting students and the educational system as a whole.
Furthermore, the cultural context of Nigeria presents unique challenges and opportunities related to motivation. According to Ajayi and Afolabi (2010), cultural beliefs and values influence both student and teacher motivation. In many Nigerian communities, education is highly valued, which can serve as a powerful motivator for students. However, socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and limited access to resources, can undermine this motivation. The authors argue for a need to align educational strategies with cultural contexts to enhance motivation among students and teachers alike.
Parental involvement is another crucial factor influencing motivation in Nigeria’s educational system. Research by Akintunde (2015) indicates that active participation of parents in their children’s education positively correlates with students’ motivation and achievement. When parents support and encourage their children’s academic pursuits, it fosters a sense of responsibility and ambition in students. This highlights the importance of engaging families as partners in the educational process to bolster motivation and drive educational growth in Nigeria.
In conclusion, motivation is a multifaceted factor that significantly impacts the growth of the educational system in Nigeria. Both student and teacher motivation play pivotal roles in enhancing academic performance and institutional development. As highlighted by various studies, effective policies, cultural considerations, and parental involvement are essential components in fostering a motivated educational environment. Addressing these factors can lead to improved educational outcomes and contribute to the overall development of the Nigerian educational system.
1.2. Statement of the Problem
The educational system in Nigeria faces significant challenges that hinder its growth and effectiveness, with motivation being a crucial factor. Despite various reforms and investments in education, many students display low levels of engagement and academic performance. This problem can often be traced back to insufficient motivation, both intrinsic and extrinsic, which negatively impacts students’ ability to excel. Many students, particularly in under-resourced areas, struggle to find relevance in their studies, leading to high dropout rates and poor academic outcomes. Understanding how motivation affects educational growth is essential for developing strategies to address these issues.
Teacher motivation is another critical aspect that influences the educational landscape in Nigeria. Research indicates that many educators experience low morale due to factors such as inadequate salaries, lack of professional development opportunities, and insufficient recognition for their efforts. This lack of motivation can lead to suboptimal teaching practices and high attrition rates among qualified teachers, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the educational system. Without motivated teachers who are committed to their students’ success, the quality of education suffers, perpetuating a cycle of underachievement and stagnation.
Additionally, the impact of socio-economic factors on motivation cannot be ignored. In many Nigerian communities, poverty and limited access to resources severely restrict students’ ability to focus on their education. Students often face external pressures that detract from their academic pursuits, such as the need to work to support their families. This situation not only diminishes their intrinsic motivation but also reduces the effectiveness of extrinsic motivational factors, such as rewards or recognition from schools. Addressing these socio-economic challenges is crucial for fostering a more motivating educational environment.
The role of cultural influences on motivation is also a significant concern. In Nigeria, educational values are often deeply intertwined with cultural beliefs, which can either enhance or hinder motivation. For instance, while education is generally valued in many communities, prevailing attitudes towards certain subjects or careers may discourage students from pursuing their interests. This disconnect can lead to a lack of enthusiasm for learning and academic achievement. Understanding these cultural dimensions is essential for creating motivational strategies that resonate with students and educators alike.
Moreover, parental involvement plays a critical role in shaping student motivation and engagement. In many cases, parents may not fully understand how to effectively support their children’s education, resulting in minimal involvement. This lack of engagement can demotivate students and hinder their academic progress. Research shows that when parents actively participate in their children’s education, it positively influences motivation and performance. Therefore, fostering a collaborative approach between schools and families is vital for enhancing motivation within the educational system.
The issue of motivation within the Nigerian educational system presents a multifaceted problem that requires comprehensive solutions. Addressing the motivational challenges faced by both students and teachers is crucial for driving educational growth and improving academic outcomes. Policymakers, educators, and community leaders must work collaboratively to develop strategies that enhance motivation at all levels of the educational process, ultimately leading to a more effective and resilient educational system in Nigeria.
1.3. Purpose of the Study
The main purpose of study was to assess the Effect of motivation on the growth of educational system in Lagos Mainland Local Government Area of Lagos State. Other purposes of this study were as follows:
- To ascertain whether remuneration and incentive impact students’ academic performance.
- To determine whether job security and retention impact students’ academic performance.
- To determine if on-the-job training have effect on students’ academic performance.
- To determine if teachers workload will affect students’ academic performance.
1.4. Research Questions
The following research questions were raised in the study as follows:
- To what extent will teachers’ remuneration and incentives impact students’ academic performance?
- How will teachers’ job security and retention impact students’ academic performance?
- To what extent will on-the-job training have effect on students’ academic performance?
- How will teachers workload affect students’ academic performance?
1.5. Research Hypotheses
The following research hypotheses were formulated and tested as follows:
Ho1: There is no significant impact of remuneration and incentive on students’ academic performance.
Ho2: There is no significant impact of job security and retention on students’ academic performance.
Ho3: There is no significant impact of on-the-job training on students’ academic performance.
Ho4: There is no significant impact of teachers’workload on students’ academic performance.
1.6. Scope of the Study
The study examines Effect of motivation on the growth of educational system in Lagos Mainland Local Government Area of Lagos State. The study was narrowed down to the motivation of teachers in relation to the growth of the education system.
1.7. Significance of the Study
The significance of studying the effect of motivation on the growth of the educational system in Nigeria is multi-faceted and has implications for various stakeholders. Firstly, understanding the dynamics of motivation can help educators and policymakers design more effective instructional strategies and curricula. By identifying factors that enhance student engagement and motivation, educational authorities can tailor learning experiences to meet the needs of diverse learners, ultimately leading to improved academic performance. This aligns with the global trend toward student-centered learning, which prioritizes the individual interests and goals of students.
Secondly, this study holds particular relevance for teacher development and retention in Nigeria. Motivated teachers are key to delivering quality education, and exploring what drives their motivation can inform professional development programs. By investing in training and support that address the motivational needs of teachers, schools can create a more committed and effective workforce. This, in turn, can lead to higher levels of job satisfaction among educators, reducing turnover rates and fostering a more stable learning environment for students.
Additionally, understanding the role of motivation in the educational context can guide parental involvement strategies. Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s educational experiences, and insights gained from this study can help parents become more effective supporters of their children’s academic endeavors. By fostering an environment that emphasizes motivation and engagement at home, parents can significantly contribute to their children’s educational success. This partnership between parents and educators is vital for creating a cohesive support system that enhances student motivation.
The significance of this study extends to addressing socio-economic factors that impact motivation in Nigeria. By examining how external conditions, such as poverty and resource limitations, affect student engagement, the research can inform policies aimed at alleviating these challenges. Understanding the barriers that hinder motivation allows for targeted interventions, such as community support programs and resource allocation, that can help create a more equitable educational environment. This is particularly crucial in a country where socio-economic disparities often dictate educational opportunities.
Furthermore, this study can shed light on the cultural influences on motivation within the Nigerian educational system. Cultural beliefs and values significantly impact how education is perceived and pursued. By understanding these cultural dimensions, stakeholders can develop culturally responsive motivational strategies that resonate with students. This approach can help bridge the gap between educational expectations and students’ lived experiences, fostering a more meaningful connection to their learning.
Lastly, the findings of this study can contribute to the broader discourse on educational reform in Nigeria. As the country strives to improve its educational outcomes in a globalized world, understanding the intricacies of motivation offers valuable insights for creating sustainable change. By highlighting the importance of motivation in driving educational growth, this research can influence policy decisions and resource allocation, ultimately supporting the development of a more robust and effective educational system in Nigeria.
1.8. Operational Definitions of Key Terms
The following is the definitions of major terms as they are used in the study.
Effect: The term “effect” refers to a change or outcome that results from a specific cause or influence. In the context of motivation and education, it indicates how certain motivational factors can lead to changes in student engagement, academic performance, or the overall functioning of the educational system.
Motivation: Motivation is the internal or external drive that compels individuals to take action or engage in particular behaviors. It encompasses the desires, goals, and needs that propel students to learn and succeed academically. Motivation can be intrinsic (arising from personal interest and enjoyment) or extrinsic (driven by external rewards or recognition).
Growth: Growth refers to the process of development, improvement, or expansion over time. In an educational context, growth can pertain to various aspects, including academic achievement, personal development of students, enhancement of teaching quality, and the overall advancement of educational institutions.
Educational System: An educational system comprises the structured framework through which education is delivered within a specific context, including schools, curricula, policies, and administration. It encompasses all stakeholders—students, teachers, parents, and policymakers—and aims to facilitate learning, development, and the acquisition of knowledge and skills in a society.
Project – EFFECT OF MOTIVATION ON THE GROWTH OF EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM
