Before the discussion of interpretation of flow theory becomes too substantial, and we start into meta-metacognitive phenomena, I'd like to ask the Forum's indulgence in a question or two whose answer is directed at those who are trying to use computers to enhance learning.
I couldn't agree more that a state in which everything is flowing is the best possible state to which our motivational devices can bring a potential learner. But this state isn't even achieved very often in computer games--let alone CBLEs. If we conjured up the computer game that brought more people to this condition than any other, would we find that a similar flow condition happened an unusually high portion of the time for the game's authors? How did they feel while they were working on it? Was it a sustained flow state? Should we expect the designers to reach a maximum flow condition while building the product in order for the product to bring about a similar condition for the users?
The process of designing an engaging piece of educational software takes months or even years. This is clearly too long for the designers to remain at sustained maximum performance level. Is there a pattern in the design process where there are periods of inspired enthusiasm? If there is such a pattern, is there a best time in the cycle to reach this level?
I hope that Marshall will take the time to answer these off-the-wall kinds of questions. He well knows of my inability to walk in straight lines.