The Impact of External Motivation on Learners’ Academic Performance in Selected Schools of the Luvuvhu Circuit, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province

Abstract

The study examined the impact of external incentives on the academic performance of learners in selected schools in the Luvuvhu Circuit of the Vhembe East District. The study filled an important void in the literature by treating the external motivational sources that impacted learner engagement and achievement within this environment. A qualitative research design of an explorative nature was used for this study, which was guided by the interpretivist paradigm. The sample was selected purposively to contribute valid and detailed information on external motivation and academic progress. The experiences, perceptions and beliefs of the learners and the teachers were elicited through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions in the sampled schools, and they were the sources of data. Thematic analysis was utilised to look into the intertwining influences of external motivational influences and academic achievement. The findings from the study add to the literature on the impact of external motivating factors on learners' motivation and achievement in this context. Furthermore, findings provided insights for targeted interventions and policy recommendations in the effort to enhance educational performance, decrease dropout rate, and achieve equity in learning opportunities in the Luvuvhu Circuit and similar educational settings.