An Inquiry Into Motivation Using the Case of Phaedrus' Demonstrator

Abstract

The primary vehicle of this inquiry into the nature of motivation is the case of Phaedrus' Demonstrator. Its setting is a class where grades are withheld from students, and their reactions are noted and analyzed from the instructor's perspective. Effective use of the case is delineated, and options are suggested for carrying its lessons to the workplace. Students tend to be highly engaged, because the inquiry begins with a subject that is of intense interest to many.