Expectancy to Teach

Abstract

Two experiments were conducted to determine if expectancy to teach serves to increase learning beyond that produced by expectancy to be objectively tested. In the first experiment, Ss (N = 54) listened to a tape recorded lesson, with one-half the Ss expecting a following test and the other half expecting both to teach the same lesson to two other Ss and to be tested. Test results for both incentive conditions were nearly identical. In the second experiment, Ss (N = 54) read the lesson with half expecting to have their own lecture performances taped for playing before large audiences. Once, again, expectancy to teach did not affect learning. It was suggested that expectancy to teach may enhance learning only where students are motivated to increase amount of study activity, and have the opportunity to do so.