ARCS Model of Motivation

Background

The ARCS Model of Motivation was designed by educational psychologist John Keller and was first revealed in 1979. He designed this model during his research on motivation and his recognition that motivation and engagement played a large role in education. Keller wanted to find an effective way to understand the influences on motivation to learn and to identify and solve problems with learning motivation.

This model is meant to tie motivation strategies to the learning goals in order to create engaging experiences where instructional content is presented in an effective manner. It has four main components that are outlined below: Attention, Relevance, Confidence, and Satisfaction. Used appropriately, these elements can work to create increased motivation in learners.

ATTENTION

Get student attention by using a variety of instructional methods.

Create surprise, doubt, or disbelief in the learner.

Pose a challenging questions to which they must find a solution.