Motivational Learning Theories
Theresa Huff
What keeps someone going when learning gets tough? What makes a learner lean in with curiosity or shut down before they even begin? Motivation is at the heart of those questions. In this section, you’ll explore key theories that help explain how and why learners stay engaged and how you, as an instructional designer, can support that process.
Motivation is the force that drives us to start something, keep going, and reach a goal. It can come from within us (intrinsic motivation), like a genuine interest or love of learning, or it can come from outside of us (extrinsic motivation), like rewards, deadlines, or praise. While you can’t always control what motivates each learner, you can design instruction that supports motivation in powerful ways.
Further Reading
The following chapters found in the student created chapters of this text cover particular motivational learning theories and models. Motivational theories are used as often as learning theories in our field, because they offer insight into how to create learning that sticks. In this section, you’ll be introduced to:
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Self-Determination Theory, which explores how giving learners a sense of choice, competence, and connection can increase motivation.
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Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, which reminds us that learners need basic needs met, like safety and belonging, before they can fully focus on learning.
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Keller’s ARCS Model of Motivation, though not technically a theory, it is a practical framework based on theory to help you grab and keep attention while supporting learner confidence and satisfaction.
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Flow Theory, which describes how to design experiences that help learners feel fully focused, challenged, and “in the zone.”
Each theory offers a different lens, but together, they give you a strong foundation for designing learning that goes beyond just delivering content. As you read, think about your own experiences. What motivates you to learn? What made you lose interest? Your own reflections can help you design more meaningful, engaging learning for others.
Licenses and Attribution
