Discussion

Discuss the nature of one perspective (theory) on motivation. Discuss its implications for the assessment of students' motivation to learn. For instance, what is this perspective well-suited to examining and explaining and not well suited to examining and explaining? [Note: A perspective is any point of view that makes distinctive assumptions about what motivates learning. Make sure you are clear about the distinctive features of the perspective on what motivates learning of your particular subject matter. Use the readings to make your points.]

Research on students' online reading strategies (e.g., Coiro) is just one of a series of important but complex and controversial topics that educational researchers have investigated in the sub-field of technology, literacy, and new literacies (e.g., Tierney). Drawing on your reading of the articles that highlight the literacy debates raging today (e.g., Rich, Tierney, Coiro) critically reflect on the 'literacies' you feel scholar-teachers need to develop to work in modern day work environments, which typically include a blend of teaching and research. Provide evidence from the readings to support your points. Feel free to draw on empirical evidence from these readings in addition to other studies with which you may be familiar.

How much might educational psychology have to change due to advances in technology and the greater integration of media into formal and informal learning? (Note that Kirschner, Sweller, and Clark's influential paper makes no mention of technology nor does it address societal changes that may impact goals for learning in our schools).