Expectancy-value theory

Expectancy -by- value models are psychological models, the motivation to perform a certain behavior, the subjective expectation to bring about a particular consequence with the behavior and explain the subjective or objective value of behavioral consistency. They have great importance in behavioral economics and based on the mathematical construct expected value.

The motivation to show a certain behavior, results from the product of the value of behavioral consequences (emotional or rational) and the subjective expectation to achieve the desired consistency with the behavior; formal: M = W × E. Motivational considered a high value can thus compensate little chance of success, or a low value is compensated by high chances of success.

John William Atkinson (1964 ) Risk - choice model is an example of an E x W model in the power range.

Application in educational psychology

Beginning in the 80s, the U.S. researchers Jacquelynne Eccles and Allan Wigfield have transferred and modified this approach in the educational field. In its Expectancy -value theory, they posit that the motivation of students, their perseverance and the choice of which tasks they address directly with their expectations of success ( "expectation component ", " expectation of success" ) and the subjective value are connected, the they judge the task. To these components, there are various influences, for example the culture medium.

The term values ​​( " value component ", " subjective task value" ) is divided into the following components:

  • " Attainment value" (importance, identification with the subject and the school in general),
  • "Intrinsic value" ( interest, enjoyment of the task),
  • " Utility value" (benefits for short-and long -term goals ) and
  • " Cost" ( opportunity costs).

According to empirical findings, the task value has the strongest direct influence on the choice of courses, while the success expectations directly affect performance.

Swell

  • Atkinson, John William: An introduction to motivation. New York et al.:. Van Nostrand 1964 Dt. Introduction to motivation research. Stuttgart: Klett, 1975, ISBN 3-12-920210-2
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