In this article, the author compares teaching and learning to the maintenance of an old car that leaks oil and must constantly be "topped up." Learning is a complex process of taking in and leaking out. The retention of new information is constantly under assault by an array of personal and contextual factors, such as a lack of interest, fatigue,…

This discussion of learning motivation focuses on the four basic concepts of the ARCs Motivation Model: getting learners' attention, showing relevance, building confidence, and generating satisfaction. Strategies for dealing with these concerns are suggested. The second article in this series will deal with the design process. (LRW)