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Microcommitments: The Effect of Small Commitments on Student Success

Author

Listed:
  • Amanda J. Felkey
  • Eva Dziadula
  • Eric P. Chiang
  • Jose Vazquez

Abstract

We conducted a randomized control trial with nearly 1,000 students to test whether using a text-message-based tool that provides small commitments with social accountability helps students procrastinate less and maintain engagement with course material, yielding improved academic performance. All students received identical content via text message, but the treatment group engaged with an online platform encouraging commitments and featuring a social feed with rankings. The analysis reveals that microcommitments with social accountability improved academic performance relative to students who received simple nudges. The increase is equivalent to 3 percentage points on an exam, driven by online and hybrid classes.

Suggested Citation

  • Amanda J. Felkey & Eva Dziadula & Eric P. Chiang & Jose Vazquez, 2021. "Microcommitments: The Effect of Small Commitments on Student Success," AEA Papers and Proceedings, American Economic Association, vol. 111, pages 92-96, May.
  • Handle: RePEc:aea:apandp:v:111:y:2021:p:92-96
    DOI: 10.1257/pandp.20211043
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Kuo, Sylvia, 2022. "The impact of distributed homework on student outcomes," International Review of Economics Education, Elsevier, vol. 41(C).
    2. Pugatch, Todd & Schroeder, Elizabeth & Wilson, Nicholas, 2022. "Study More Tomorrow," IZA Discussion Papers 15367, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).

    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • I28 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Government Policy

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