This paper outlines research procedures designed to approach systematically the junior college remedial problem--the remedial student's lack of success. The procedure is based on a theory of motivation (need achievement) and is designed to provide data for the following questions: (1) Are remedial students less motivated than non-remedial students? (2) Can the performance of remedial students be affected by increasing their motivation? and (3) Can the effectiveness of a remedial course be enhanced by modifying instruction in a way that promotes motivation? For each question, a research design is presented, with complete instructions for (1) selecting students, (2) administering test instruments and experimental treatments, (3) calculating statistics, and (4) making inferences. (HH)