Why is intrinsic motivation our goal?

There are several levels on which we could address this question. At the most basic level, it's more fun to spend time learning about something if you are curious and inquisitive, and it is likely to lead to better retention and understanding of a topic. (Of course, we can't expect anyone to be inherently interested in every topic, personally there are just some things that I don't find interesting at all. But let's postpone discussion of that point to a later post.) At this stage in my life, this seems obvious and intuitive (I would never have made it this far in graduate school if it didn't) but I don't think it's something I was conscious of as a freshman, or even as a senior, in college.

From a teacher's perspective, it is much easier to engage students who are intrinsically motivated, although they may pose more challenging questions and issues. I also find more immediate rewards from interacting with motivated students, there is more bi-directional communication which I find reassuring. There may be some inherent danger in this feeling, and I think it's the teacher's responsibility to teach to all the students in the class, not just those who are self-motivated (more on this later).

On a grander level, I think intrinsic motivation is a life skill. I believe that a healthy, enjoyable, well-balanced life involves seeking out new challenges and exploring and learning. We have all probably experienced the personal satisfaction that results from finding answers to a question that you are curious about. In my own experience, this often leads to higer self-confidence, which then frees me to follow my curiosity about the next interesting thing I encounter.