Understanding Utility-Value Interventions: The Devil Is in the Methodological Details

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

Abstract

Utility-value (UV) interventions rooted in Eccles’ Expectancy-Value Theory show great promise in promoting motivation and performance. However, the format of the UV writing assignments differed across studies, in format (essays vs. letters), the target of the UV connection (self vs. other), and whether students are also required to summarize course content, raising questions of whether different types of UV assignments work the same way. In a randomized laboratory experiment (n = 351), students listened to a biology lecture and completed a UV or control writing assignment. We manipulated the characteristics of UV assignments, and found that methodological “details” of the intervention had differential effects on perceived utility value, interest, and performance, suggesting different assignments may affect different motivational processes.

Authors

• Stacy J. Priniski, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Judith Harackiewicz, University of Wisconsin

• Elizabeth Ann Canning, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Yoi Tibbetts, University of Wisconsin