This session built upon the May, 2013 session in which we discussed how cognitive psychology can be used to inform our understanding of student motivation. Researchers suggest that two sets of student perceptions impact student motivation:
- Perceived usefulness of overcoming the challenge, and
- Perceived capability of overcoming the challenge.
In this session, Christine Logel, assistant professor in Renison's Social Development Studies program, presented findings from research undertaken with the University of Waterloo's Engineering students that suggest the second set of factors may have a significant impact on the engagement and success of our female students.
After a brief overview of relevant topics such as stress, concentration, stereotyping, fitting in, and test performance, Logel discussed empirically tested approaches for promoting improved academic success amongst female engineering students. The session closed with discussion of how Logel's findings might shape our design of learning activities and assessments for all our students.
October 2013 Teaching Development Working Group (TDWG) abstract (PDF)
October 2013 Teaching Development Working Group (TDWG) abstract (PDF)