Supporting Intellectual Conflicts: The Interactive Effects of Perceived Competence and Social Interdependence in Peer Learning

• In Event: Poster Session 12
  In Poster Session: Division C Poster Session

Abstract

While intellectual conflicts can stimulate learning and enhance peer-learning methods, they can also suppress learning when peers experience competence threat. To better understand these processes, we examined the effects of perceived competence and social interdependence (cooperative, competitive perceptions) in (a) an experimental study using a vignette-based manipulation (Study 1) and in (b) a field study in undergraduate anatomy laboratories (Study 2). As predicted, we found significant interactive effects of competence and social interdependence on socio-cognitive conflict regulation, behavioral engagement, and critical reasoning. Results suggest that supporting students’ perceptions of both competence and cooperation – rather than simply cooperation – is necessary to ensure that intellectual conflict enhances learning and other positive outcomes.

Authors

• You-kyung Lee, Sookmyung Women's University

• Cary J. Roseth, Michigan State University