Directed motivational current

In this chapter, we introduce a novel psychological construct whose key aspects are well-established in major motivation theories. A Directed Motivational Current (DMC) is a conceptual framework which depicts unique periods of intensive motivational involvement both in pursuit of and fuelled by a highly valued goal/vision. The heightened motivational state of individuals or groups involved in a DMC is maintained through the deployment of a salient facilitative structure that includes reinforcing feedback loops, positive emotionality and the prospect of reaching a new level of operation. When applied in second language contexts, DMCs can energise language learners to perform beyond expectations and across several levels and timescales, including long-term engagements.