Commitment, Present Bias and College Students

This research paper delves into the intricate domain of time bias, a pivotal point in behavioral economics, exploring the systematic cognitive biases individuals exhibit when making decisions involving time and resource allocation. The study posits that understanding time bias is crucial for comprehending delays in economic development, particularly in the context of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic. The research bifurcates into two critical aspects: management systems and academic performance, with a focus on gender, commitment, and family incomes as influencing factors. In the literature review, the study examines existing research on the impact of gender, school commitment, and family incomes on time bias. Notably, gender differences are explored, revealing that female students tend to exhibit better academic performance due to enhanced behavior management and greater adherence to regulations. The discussion on school commitment emphasizes the role schools play in mitigating disruptions and fostering an environment conducive to academic success. Additionally, the exploration of family incomes unveils a nuanced relationship between wealth, present bias, and academic achievement, challenging conventional assumptions. The study proposes a novel experimental approach in the form of an academic English class, segregating students into two groups: one with long-term goals and the other with short-term, frequent commitments. The aim is to assess the influence of commitment structures on academic performance and procrastination, with gender differences also under scrutiny. The research hypothesizes that short-term commitments positively impact academic performance. Anticipated results expect the short commitment group to outperform the long-term commitment group, and the gender-based impact on academic performance to be more pronounced among male students. The significance of this research lies in its potential to uncover effective methods for managing time bias, not only in academic settings but also in broader practical and business contexts. The findings may contribute to enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in various management structures.