What is a graduate student to make of this deep theoretical mumbo jumbo about content and process theories of motivation? Does anyone really care what they are and/or do they really matter in the day-to-day challenges of leading in school or running any large organization? I’d like hear your thoughts, so why not compare the two theories and share what you think. Don't be scared, tell us how you really feel about motivation.
I think both content and process theories of motivation matter in running a school. It is necessary to know what motivates your staff and it is also important to know how to motivate your staff. Administrators need to know the what, because it imperative in trying to keep the staff happy and motivated. The process theory is needed to explain how motivation occurs. Administrators need to be aware of why people make the choices that they make.
ReplyDeleteContent theories focus on factors within the individual that lead to motivation. The process theories focus on the dynamics of motivation & how the motivation process takes place.
ReplyDeleteContent Theories:
-Maslow's Need Hierarchy Theory
-Herzberg Two Factor Theory
-ERG Theory
-Achievement Motivation Theory
Process Theories:
-Goal Setting Theory
-Vroom's Expectancy Theory
-Adam's Equity Theory
-Poter's Performance Satisfaction Model
Again I agree with Tracy that both theories should be considered when leading a school. It is important to know how to motivate and what motivates an individual. In a school there are many tasks that need to get accomplished. I feel that everyone should contribute and not just a few towards getting things accomplished.
Many hands make light work, so in order to get everyone involved in some capacity you need to be able to motivate teachers, parents and students to meet the goals of your school and district.