For a motivation to be effective, what must learners believe about their efforts?

For motivation to be effective, learners must believe their efforts will be rewarded in a definite manner. This belief creates a direct connection between the work put into a task and the anticipated rewards or outcomes. When learners have confidence that their efforts will lead to specific rewards, whether intrinsic (such as personal satisfaction or a sense of achievement) or extrinsic (such as grades, praise, or tangible benefits), they are more likely to engage actively and persistently in learning activities.

This expectation of reward drives engagement and can increase motivation levels, leading to improved performance. Additionally, the presence of a clear reward system helps learners set goals and understand the significance of their learning efforts, fostering a sense of purpose and diligence. In contrast, lacking definite expectations about the results of their work can lead to decreased motivation and a sense of futility in putting forth effort.