Writing assignment #1
A lot of the motivational research focuses our attention on the individual and the individual’s ability to control learning and achievement. For instance, attribution theory argues that internal, controllable attributions are the most productive attributions for both success and failure. Internal, controllable attributions are associated with a mastery orientation – the individuals use more productive strategies, seek out optimal levels of challenge, and persist longer in the face of adversity.
On the other hand, diversity research focuses our attention on the group and the control that societal beliefs, institutions, environments, etc. have over the individual. For instance, research on cultural mismatch argues that some groups of students are at a disadvantage because their culture is in conflict with aspects of school culture. Students may come from a culture where talking over each other is the norm ("talk stories") and have to adapt to a school culture where such behavior is punished. Some researchers argue that in many cases, students have no choice but to fail or underachieve in school due to cultural mismatch combined with other societal factors.
Is there a conflict between these two bodies of research? Explain why or why not? For who or for what contexts is the respective information most valuable?