Success in learning can be understood as reaching either personal goals (intrinsic) or goals set forth by others (extrinsic). However, for success to be motivating it is important to consider how students explain their successes, for example, if they are due to effort or luck. Success attributed to measures within one's control, such as effort, can build confidence and feelings of competence that increase engagement. Chapter 6 illustrates this relationship between success and motivation, and offers teacher strategies for promoting student success in the science classroom.
Resources to support teachers in promoting success can be found by clicking on the links shown at right. Resources include handouts and activities, further reading, links to recommended websites, and short (~ 3 minute) video clips illustrating the importance of this concept to practicing scientists and showing exemplary high school teachers who practice the strategies recommended in the book.