Effects of extrinsic rewards on intrinsic motivation in the classroom

This paper attempts to clarify the effects of extrinsic rewards on intrinsic reinforcement from academic activities. Specifically, it addresses three questions: (a) What is the distinction between extrinsic and intrinsic reinforcement? (b) Why use extrinsic rewards in the classroom? and (c) What have been the long-term effects of extrinsic rewards on intrinsic interest in classroom activities? It was generally concluded that extrinsic rewards play an essential role in the classroom and that such rewards have increased intrinsic interest in classroom activities.