Motivation as Part of Reading Instruction 

Instructor: Pamela Kennedy, M.Ed.	3 Graduate Credit Hours
Email: ptklit8@gmail.com	Cell Phone: 216/347-2087
	Classroom Location:  online/asynchronous
Office hours:  Request via email. Response within 24-48 hours.

 

Course Description:

            Motivation as Part of Reading Instruction
 This 100% online, asynchronous course is designed for school and district administrators, literacy coaches, and instructional leaders who are seeking to strengthen adolescent reading engagement through research-based motivation practices. Participants will explore the psychological, social, and cultural factors that influence student motivation, with a particular emphasis on literacy development in diverse learning environments.

Course content includes in-depth study of motivation theories, the role of culturally responsive teaching in fostering reading engagement, strategies to support student autonomy, and effective interventions for reluctant readers. Participants will analyze current data and case studies to identify system-level barriers to motivation and design targeted solutions.

Specifically tailored to administrators and literacy coaches, with a focus on leadership, systems-level impact, and instructional support, this course culminates in the development of a school- or district-level literacy motivation plan that aligns with broader instructional goals and wellness initiatives, equipping leaders to support teachers and influence sustainable, equity-driven change in reading outcomes.

 

Course Learning Outcomes: 

1. Explain key theories of reading motivation and their classroom applications.
2. Analyze the role of identity, culture, and relevance in literacy engagement.
3. Design strategies that promote autonomy, choice, and social interaction in reading.
4. Identify and address barriers to reading motivation.
5. Develop a research-based literacy motivation plan for a classroom or school setting.

Required Resources:

●        All required reading will be linked in an assignment document.

●        Access to the internet and Google Classroom

●        Personal Gmail account: Not affiliated with K-12 school district nor with higher learning institution. 

 

Class Syllabus

Assignments include:

1. Watching multimedia presentations that feature instructional slides, embedded videos, and linked podcasts highlighting research findings, expert interviews, and classroom-based strategies.
    
2. Engaging with curated weekly readings and video assignments, including scholarly articles, case studies, and brief video lectures that connect theory to real-world practice.
    
3. Submitting reflective responses and leadership-focused assignments such as discussion prompts, implementation plans, or coaching scenarios aligned to course objectives.
    
4. Completing short knowledge checks, such as multiple-choice quizzes or brief application tasks, to reinforce key concepts and ensure content retention.
    
5. Participating in differentiated tasks, where assignments may shift based on participant progress, interest, or demonstrated mastery—allowing for choice and professional relevance.

Grading Procedures:

Participation	30 points / 150 points total
Assignments	100 points/ 500 points total
Reflections	100 points each / 500 points total
Quizzes	50 points each / 250  points total
	A= 90%; B= 80%; C=70%; D=60%