Disentangling the Impact of Instructor Mindset and Demeanor on Student Experiences (Poster 32)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Two
  In Poster Session: Motivational Beliefs in Context

Abstract

Students’ perceptions of their professors can have a substantial impact on their experiences and performance. This study investigates two student perceptions--whether professors seem warm or cold, and whether they seem to believe that abilities are fixed or malleable. To examine these factors, participants read vignettes of a student-professor interaction and answered questions about their perception of the professor and what it might be like to be their student. Results show that warm/friendly communications paired with messages that indicate students can increase their abilities over time produce the best expected outcomes in students. This includes better anticipated grades, lower levels of imposter feelings, more feelings of belonging, and less concern about being judged by others.

Authors

• Makita White, Washington State University
  Presenting Author

• Elizabeth A. Canning, Washington State University
  Non-Presenting Author