Motivational Theory: Using File Folder Games

ACCORDING TO JOHN KELLERCOMPILED FROM THE WEBSITE:

HTTP://IDE.ED.PSU.EDU/IDDE/ARCS.HTM

Motivational Theory and Using File Folder Games

in the Classroom

Four Categories of Motivation

1. Attention2. Relevance3. Confidence4. Satisfaction

1. Attention

*”Who wants to play a game?”

*”You can choose from these two games to play!”

*”Here is a game using Mickey Mouse characters!”

Perceptual Arousal

“Let’s stop reading and play a game instead!”

“Look at this game using worms!”

Inquiry Arousal

File folder games can get a student thinking about a new concept

Variability

File folder games give a different way to learn and practice information.

2. Relevance

*File folder games can connect students to content they enjoy and to information learning in the classroom

Familiarity

File folders are great examples File folders can be adapted for individual

personalities and preferences.

Goal Orientation

File folders have an achievable goal: complete the game using the directions.

Motive Matching

File folders can motivate an unmotivated student because they are playing a game that matches their interests

3. Confidence

*Completing games can give students confidence that they are successful

*Letting students self-correct lets them gain confidence in themselves

Expectancy for Success

Directions on the games let students know the expectancy of the game

Challenge Setting

File folder games can challenge students to try a new concept.

Goals can be set to complete a certain number of games.

Attribution Molding

File folder games are self-satisfying for students and give a way for teachers to praise students

4. Satisfaction

*File folder games can give students a feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction with their hard work

Natural Consequences

File folder games can be set up in simulated, real-world situations

Positive Consequences

File folder games are a great way to provide feedback to students

Equity

File folders are a great way to keep all students accomplishing work and allow all students to achieve praise

Resources

Keller, John. (1983) ARCS – Motivational Theory. Retrieved from http://ide.ed.psu.edu/idde/ARCS.htm October 5, 2009.