A theoretical analysis of educator motivation and morale

Abstract

For various reasons educator morale and motivation have been the focus of considerable attention. Several factors have been attributed as underlying causes of low morale and poor motivation among staff in the teaching profession. If educator performance in schools is to be improved, it is necessary to pay attention to the kind of work environment that enhances educators' sense of professionalism and increases their morale and motivation. A distinction is made between the motivation and the morale of individuals. This article briefly outlines the factors identified in studies that influence the morale and motivation of educators. Attention is also paid to models of motivation which have been developed to understand the motivation of staff. These models provide the foundation on which a general model for motivation can be developed that serves as a means to understand the motivation process.