Establishing the Invariant Natures and Exploring the Variable Relations of Value and Cost

• In Event: 30.062 - A Closer Examination of Cost: Expectancy-Value Theory Revisited

Abstract

We examined 334 undergraduate biology students’ perception of cost and value in a STEM course at three time points across the semester. We confirm measurement invariance across observed measures, and latent measures of value and cost at each time point. We also confirm that latent measures of value and cost distinctly factor into two unique constructs. Lastly, we investigate how perceptions of early cost investment relate to concurrent value and subsequent value and cost. Results indicate that initial cost investment early in the semester enhances students’ sense of investment in the course, thus increasing the value they perceive the course to possess. However, over time, perceptions of costs no longer predict greater perceptions of value by semester’s end.

Authors

• Rachel Part, University of Nevada - Las Vegas

• Matthew L. Bernacki, University of Nevada - Las Vegas

• Gwen C. Marchand, University of Nevada - Las Vegas