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Motivational Spiral Models (MSM) show links over time among self concepts, feelings, strategies, skills and participation in everyday activities. In theory, MSM have many common features, with distinct features in particular contexts. This project examined children’s motivation to participate in literacy (MSM-L), social (MSM-S) and physical activities (MSM-P). The participants in Study 1 (N = 32) were 9 to 11 years old, and in Study 2 (N = 73) were 4 to 12 year old children. Locations were close to the Australian national average in socio-economic indicators, and initial screening showed these were representative samples. Analyses used variable-oriented correlational models as well as person-oriented clusters that suggest the standard and alternative motivational pathways. The results of Study 1 suggested bi-directional links between children’s self concepts and participation in activities. Study 2 identified the common features as: openness and stability over time; and self concepts that motivate and justify participation in activities. Distinct features of MSM-L show the few negative feelings that may limit reading. In MSM-S, self concepts support the positive feelings, and in MSM-P, positive feelings support the task strategies. In conclusion, findings support MSM theory with common features based on self concepts and distinct features of developing motivations in particular contexts. MSM provide a sound base for future research in the contexts of everyday activities for children. In addition, there are practical applications of the findings to prevention, monitoring and intervention programmes.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/2193-1801-2-565) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Neuroanatomical laboratory material was presented to first-year medical students in a series of six self-instructional stations. Each station was designed to emphasize one major objective and to be completed without reference to any other station. Upon completion of a station the students filled out a response questionnaire. Five weeks later, short examinations testing both station content and application of the neuroanatomical principles were administered to volunteers from the class. Student response to this teaching format was highly favourable for all areas questioned. Results of the tests indicated a mastery of station material as defined by the objectives and an ability to use the material in applied problems. The laboratory station concept is economical of both student and instructor time and allows flexibility in the design of neuroanatomical laboratory experiences.