Using Motivation Theories to Attract, Engage, and Retain Learners (Level 2)

Session Description: As we navigate a post-pandemic world, continuing education (CE) professionals are faced with changed learner behaviors and expectations. Clinician burnout is a critical issue and can contribute to lack of motivation for professional development. Yet, research indicates that motivation influences what, when, and how we learn. Fortunately, motivational state is changeable, situational, and affected by the environment. Therefore, CE professionals can be part of the solution because they can influence learning motivation through thoughtful design and delivery.

Participants in this activity will gain an understanding of the principles of selected motivation theories, how motivation theories might be translated into educational design, and how that might result in increased learner engagement with CE activities.

This session will be a combination of didactic and guided small group discussions. After being introduced to several motivational theories, participants will work in small groups using a worksheet with prompts and resources to brainstorm ideas for applying motivation principles to their CE context.

Participants will take home motivation theories-based design strategies that they can apply in their CE activities to enhance motivation of their learners.

This session is applicable to all members sections because, regardless of affiliation, all CE professionals must motivate their target audience and sustain learning.