Unpacking the Role of Expectancy-Value Theory in Physical Education
The Influence of Expectancy-Value Theory in Physical Education
Motivation significantly affects educational outcomes, especially in physical education (PE), where it influences both learning and activity levels. The Expectancy-Value Theory (EVT), which focuses on students’ beliefs about their success and the value they place on tasks, offers insightful perspectives on motivation. This blog post delves into recent research by Shang, Moss, and Chen (2023) that reviews EVT's application in PE through a meta-analysis spanning 2010 to 2020.
Core Components of EVT and Their Impact
Expectancy Beliefs
These reflect students’ perceptions of their success likelihood. Higher expectancy beliefs are associated with increased confidence and motivation.
Subjective Task Value
This includes:
Attainment Value: Importance placed on succeeding.
Intrinsic Value: Enjoyment derived from the activity.
Utility Value: Perceived usefulness for future goals.
Insights from the Meta-Analysis
The meta-analysis examines the impact of EVT on student engagement in PE, revealing that:
Motivation Boost: Students with strong expectancy beliefs and values are more engaged and gain more from PE.
Increased Engagement: Aligning PE tasks with student values enhances engagement and effort.
Practical Applications
To leverage EVT in PE effectively:
Activity Alignment: Align PE activities with both educational goals and students' personal values.
Positive Expectancies: Enhance success expectancy by demonstrating clear mastery pathways and recognizing progress.
Future Research Directions
Further research should explore:
Longitudinal Effects: How EVT influences student behavior over time.
Application Across Settings: Extend EVT research to various educational environments to widen its applicability.
Conclusion
EVT is a potent tool for understanding and improving motivation in physical education. Integrating its principles into PE programs can profoundly impact student experiences and outcomes.
For a deeper dive into the detailed studies and findings, refer to the original paper by Shang, Moss, and Chen (2023).
