Drawing on a powerful learner-centered model of motivation, we view engagement through two essential lenses: autonomy and investment.
Autonomy speaks to the level of choice and ownership students feel in their learning — from selecting projects to shaping how they present their work.
Engagement is about the depth of focus and energy they bring when the learning feels meaningful and relevant.
Together, these factors create classrooms where students are not only compliant, but genuinely curious, creative, and connected to the process of making music. This is where lasting motivation and confidence take root.
Motivation isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some students dive in because they’re curious and love the challenge, while others need encouragement, recognition, or a clear sense of purpose. Self-Determination Theory (SDT) explains this spectrum of motivation and shows how students thrive when three core needs are met: autonomy (choice), competence (confidence in their abilities), and relatedness (connection with others).
When these needs align, curiosity turns into lasting drive, and learning becomes something students want to do — not just something they have to do.
SDT is a research-backed framework developed by psychologists Deci and Ryan. It shows how different types of motivation — from no motivation, to extrinsic (driven by rewards or pressure), to intrinsic (driven by curiosity and enjoyment) — influence learning outcomes. The closer students move toward intrinsic motivation, the more engaged, resilient, and self-driven they become.
Technology isn’t just an add-on in today’s classroom — it’s a bridge that connects students to new ways of learning.
With the right tools, students can learn at their own pace, access a variety of resources, and stay engaged through interactive, hands-on experiences.
Technology-Enhanced Learning (TEL) levels the playing field by supporting different learning needs, boosting motivation, and preparing students with the digital skills they’ll need beyond school.
Creating Tomorrow's Musicians, Today.
Capture curiosity and bring autonomy, competence and connection into your music classroom.