Enhancing Learners’ Intrinsic Motivation Using Student Teams Achievement Divisions (Stad) in Multicultural Classrooms of South Africa

Abstract

This chapter is drawn from a PhD study that employedStudent Team’sAchievement Divisions as a learning technique to enhance learners’ intrinsic motivation inTechnology Education within a South African multicultural school. The authors over the years observed learners’ actions, and interactions in Technology classes and realised that some of the learners find it difficult to engage in behaviour that arises within themselves -an aspect known as intrinsic motivation. Most learners in the Technology class, registered no concerns in obtaining low scores or failing the subject. However, a minority of the learner population obtained high achievement scores and maintained interest throughout lessons. This study explored the development of the ZPD in a cooperative learning context. The authorsusedSTAD, as a cooperative learning technique, in motivating learners intrinsically to increase their participation in class activities. The study explored STAD in1) closing the gap between pedagogy and content knowledge, and 2) intrinsically motivating learners to develop high levels of achievement in the subject of Technology. This study employed the Bricolage design in gathering data from two Grade eight Technology classes over a six-month period. The findings indicated that the learning environment cultivated learners’ development, curiosity, and positive attitude toward Technology.