This paper assesses textual feedback to support student intrinsic motivation using a collaborative text-based dialogue system. A research model is presented based on research into intrinsic motivation, and the specific construct of feedback provides a framework for the model. A qualitative research methodology is used to validate the model. Results from the study indicate that online textual feedback was strongly supported compared to feedback in a human face-to-face setting. From observation, subjects using the collaborative text-based dialogue system were eager to engage in online textual dialogue and therefore, participated more in the discussions compared to the face-to-face verbal discussions. (Contains 4 tables and 2 figures.)