Peer Academic Reputation in Middle School Math and Science: Associations With Academic Self-Concept and Intrinsic Value Among Adolescents

• In Event: 31.091 - Roundtable Session 10
  In Roundtable Session: 31.091-4 - Explorations in Student Interest and Self-Concept

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to expand upon previous research by examining associations between peer academic reputation (PAR) and motivational outcomes among early adolescents in math and science classes. Data were collected from multiple sources in the fall and spring from 58 fifth and sixth grade math and science classrooms. GoodPAR predicted changes in academic self-concept from fall to spring, after controlling for academic self-concept in the fall. Both GoodPAR and BadPAR were associated with intrinsic value and academic self-concept in the fall and the spring. This study expands the literature by demonstrating the significance of peer academic reputation beyond the elementary school environment, and our findings give more insight into the role of peer processes during adolescence.

Author

• Elizabeth Anne North, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor