Intrinsic and extrinsic learning motivation of high academic achievers
The study conducted at a representative sample of 6-11 graders from regular secondary schools (N=665) has shown, that high academic achievers are characterized by particular motivational profile, i.e. high level of intrinsic motivation and lower level of extrinsic motivation based on the striving to get recognition and respect from parents, teachers and classmates than their less successful peers. Besides that, observed differences in extrinsic motivation of boys and girls allowed to explain gender differences in academic achievement favoring girls. This data should be used selecting children to special classes and schools for gifted and developing programs for teachers and parents that support intrinsic motivation in children.