From Participation to Passion: Enhancing Motivation and Engagement in the Classroom

This study explores strategies to enhance student motivation and engagement in higher education, focusing on factors that influence student participation in academic activities and their commitment to learning. The research investigates how teaching methods, course content, technology integration, and support systems impact students’ intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, as well as their cognitive, emotional, and behavioral engagement. Data were collected through quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, and classroom observations involving 50 undergraduate students and teachers from Namangan State Institute of Foreign Languages, Uzbekistan. The findings reveal that intrinsic motivation, driven by personal interest and relevance to future career goals, significantly influences engagement levels. Additionally, active learning strategies, such as group discussions and problem-solving tasks, were found to increase cognitive and behavioral engagement, while emotional engagement was closely linked to faculty and peer support. The study also highlights mixed responses to technology, with students benefiting from interactive tools but feeling disengaged when technology use was excessive. The results suggest that a balanced approach—incorporating both traditional and technology-enhanced learning strategies, as well as fostering a supportive classroom environment—can significantly improve student motivation and engagement. This research provides valuable insights for educators and institutions seeking to create more effective and engaging learning experiences. Future studies could further explore the long-term effects of these strategies across diverse educational contexts.