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Peer creativity and academic achievement

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  • van Lent, Max

Abstract

This paper studies the relationship between the creative abilities of study peers and academic achievement. We conduct a novel large scale field experiment at university, where students are randomized into work groups based on their score on a creativity test prior to university entry. We show that the creative abilities of peers matter for a student’s academic achievement. A one standard deviation higher creativity peer group improves study performance by 6.2 to 7.6 percentage points. Further analysis suggests that students exposed to creative peers become more creative, but do not adjust their overall study effort. This is in line with the idea that creative approaches and questions from peers help students master the study material better. Overall, our study highlights the importance of peer effects of creative students in shaping academic outcomes.

Suggested Citation

  • van Lent, Max, 2025. "Peer creativity and academic achievement," Economics of Education Review, Elsevier, vol. 106(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecoedu:v:106:y:2025:i:c:s0272775725000299
    DOI: 10.1016/j.econedurev.2025.102649
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    JEL classification:

    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education
    • I24 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Education and Inequality
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity

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