This course is designed to introduce you to theories of human motivation and their applications in educational settings, particularly to facilitate the equitable outcomes for individuals in urban contexts. We will explore the classic and contemporary theories currently in use to understand the nature, predictors, functions, and consequences of motivation, particularly as it pertains to learning, achievement, and education settings. Along the way, we will briefly examine the historical context in which the theories evolved, and the key players associated with each theory. We will also dedicate much of our time to analyzing and applying these theories to the issues you face in your current and anticipated work environments. This process of thinking about the potential benefits, limitations, and uses of motivation theory and science is intended to support your development as critically conscious scholars and leaders who are reflective and understand how to facilitate learning, well-being, and equity for children and adults in urban contexts. It is worth noting that one of the challenges in studying (and teaching!) theories of motivation is that there is a lot of “folk theories” in circulation about what motivates students, teachers, administrators, employees, and employers. Moreover, we all carry a large store of anecdotal evidence gleaned from our own experiences about what motivates individuals. Thus, in order to meet the primary course objective, which focuses on research-based theories of human motivation, we will continuously distinguish between what each theory says, the evidence on which the theory is based, the ways the theory sheds light on human behavior in learning situations, and the areas in which the theory falls short. This emphasis on distinguishing between anecdote, opinion, and theory is one of the ways your experience in this course will set you apart as a knowledgeable expert on educational leadership: a true doctor of educational practice. This course contributes to the following program-aligned learning outcomes: 1. Ability to define and explain the central ideas and constructs of major current theories for describing, predicting and explaining human motivation. 2. Ability to summarize and critique findings from empirical studies about motivation. 3. Ability to identify, explain and apply the typical operational definitions and measurement strategies used in motivation research. 4. Ability to apply key motivation theories and evidence to facilitate positive and equitable outcomes for diverse individuals in urban settings, including historically marginalized individuals 5. Evaluate and assess the effectiveness and/or progress of motivation-relevant programs to improve practice in learning organizations. 6. Engage in critically reflective practice through analysis of your positionality as it relates to motivation theory and practice in a learning context. 7. Demonstrate effective skills in group collaboration, discussion, and oral and written communication. Everything we will do in class, and everything you will be asked to do outside of class time (reading, writing, reflecting), has been thoughtfully designed to support you in successfully achieving these objectives.