Turning Boring Materials Into Curious Ones: Effects of Uncertainty Reduction on Curiosity and Motivation

• In Event: Motivation in Education SIG Poster Session: Motivational Processes and Effects

Abstract

Triggering students’ curiosity is pivotal in facilitating their learning. Yet, we have limited knowledge of how to achieve this goal. Guided by information gap theory, this study examined the effects of reducing perceived uncertainty (a gap between current and desired knowledge states) in strengthening students’ curiosity about boring materials. We carried out two experimental studies with 193 undergraduates. The degree of uncertainty was manipulated in both between- (Study 1) and within-individual (Study 2) levels by providing different number of hints to trivia questions. The two studies produced consistent evidence that reducing uncertainty was effective in increasing curiosity, especially for boring questions. Reducing uncertainty and thereby increasing curiosity further contributed to stronger post-task interest and inclination to reengage in the task.

Authors

• Dajung Diane Shin, Korea University

• Sung-il Kim, Korea University

• Mimi Bong, Korea University