Using an example of your choice apply the expectation theory of motivation. You should
consider both its strengths and weaknesses as a theory.
Arguments will be presented to show, how the expectation theory of motivation can be
used to measure the force of motivation for a student to study, to achieve a high grade in
his or her maths test. This example will be relevant as the expectation theory can look at
whether the reward will motivate/not motivate the student, whether the value of the goal
will motivate/not motivate the student, or if the thought high effort will achieve a high
grade will motivate/not motivate the student.
The first major expectancy theory was put forward by victor Harold Vroom in 1964
although later writers, such as porter and Lawler in 1968, have both added to and modified
the theory in certain respects (M. Smith., 1991). The expectancy theory works on the basis
that to achieve high motivation, hard productive work must gain a valued goal or reward
for example in a workplace if you want more money, and more money will come if you
work hard then we can predict that you will work hard. If you still want more money, and
all you think working hard will get you is smiles from the boss we can predict that you will
choose not to work hard, unless you put a high value on smiles from the boss (D.
Buchanan & A. Huczynski., 2004). Victor Harold Vroom formed the expectancy theory
using three concepts; Expectancy, Instrumentality and valence. From this he came up with
this equation.
F (force motivation) =*(V (Valence) x I (instrumentality) x E (expectancy))
The expectancy is the belief that ones effort (E) will result in attainment of the desired
performance goals. This belief, or perception, is generally based on an individuals past
experience, self confidence (often termed self efficiency), and the perceived difficulty of
the performance standard or goal.
Variables affecting the individuals Expectancy perception:
o Self Efficiency- efficiency is a persons belief about his or her ability to perform a
particular behavior successfully. Does the individual believe that he or she has the skills
and competencies required to perform the required goals well, can the student achieve a
high grade does he or she possess the skills and knowledge?
o Goal Difficulty- Goals that are set too high or performance expectations that are made
too difficult, lead to low expectancy perceptions. When individuals perceive that the goals
