The Synergistic Effect of Combining Self-Generated and Directly Communicated Utility Value Information

• In Event: Roundtable Session 1
  In Roundtable Session: Advances in Utility-Value Intervention Research

Abstract

Utility value (UV) interventions promote interest and performance by helping students find the personal relevance and value of course material. However, it is unclear whether UV interventions are more effective if students receive examples of UV connections before generating their own examples. Study 1 shows that the combination of directly communicated and self-generated UV increased interest and performance for individuals low in confidence, relative to either type of UV alone. In a randomized field experiment (Study 2), students who completed UV writing assignments earned higher course grades and were more likely to enroll in the second semester of the course. These studies show that the combination of directly communicated and self-generated UV information can increase interest, performance, and retention.

Authors

• Elizabeth Ann Canning, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Stacy J. Priniski, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Yoi Tibbetts, University of Wisconsin

• Judith Harackiewicz, University of Wisconsin