Curiosity in the Classroom: How to Spark Student Motivation

Send us a text

Why do some students naturally engage in learning while others seem uninterested? In this episode, Ashley is joined by Dan Rock, who takes on the role of coach, to dive deep into the power of curiosity and motivation in learning. Dan breaks down the research behind cognitive interest cues—simple yet powerful techniques teachers can use to increase student engagement, deepen learning and make lessons more memorable.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why motivation is one of the strongest predictors of student success, sometimes more than teacher quality or socioeconomic background.
• The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation—and why relying on external rewards (like candy or extra credit) doesn’t work for deep learning.
• The four principles of cognitive interest cues—practical ways to spark curiosity in students.
• How to personalize learning using AI to connect assignments to student interests.
• Why challenging students with complex, thought-provoking tasks actually increases engagement.

Resources Mentioned:

• The New Classroom Instruction That Works 
• Curiosity Hooks Planning Guide—Dan’s handout with templates and guiding questions for creating curiosity-driven lessons 
• Keisha King’s episode on getting students to talk more in class 

Quotable Moments:

• “Students aren’t disengaged because they don’t care—they’re disengaged because the learning environment hasn’t sparked their curiosity.” — Dan Rock
• “People are more motivated to learn when they are challenged, not when they are given busy work.” — Dan Rock

Don’t Miss:

• Ashley’s reflection: Why extra credit bribes don’t lead to deep learning—and what to do instead.
• Dan’s strategy: Use controversial or thought-provoking questions to hook students at the start of a lesson.
• Jason’s coaching insight: How curiosity cues apply not just to students, but to teachers in professional development.

The Southern Regional Education Board is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that works with states and schools to improve education at every level, from early childhood through doctoral education and the workforce.

Follow Us on Social:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• X