Expectancy theory is one of the most effective motivational conjectures or presumptions that have assisted in encouraging people to achieve whatever they desire in life. The theory states that a person will act or behave in a specific manner because they are inspired or motivated to choose a particular pattern of behavior over the others and anticipate the outcome of that identified behavior. Thus, the expectancy theory centers on the psychological processes surrounding choice (Soupir-Fremstad, 2013). However, for the approach to be effective, it must meet three critical criteria: instrumentality (performance to reward linkage), expectancy (the effort to performance expectation), and valence (attractiveness). Over the years, several works of art have been developed to assist people to understand the benefits of the Expectancy Theory. This assignment will focus specifically on the three Expectancy Theory variables teacher Jaime Escalante used in the 1988 award-winning movie Stand and Deliver to motivate his students at James A. Garfield High School to pass the AP Calculus test by their senior years.
The first element of the theory Escalante used is ‘expectancy.’ This is the conviction that an individual’s effort (E) will yield the desired or expected performance (P) outcomes or goals. The variable is often based on self-confidence (self-efficacy), individual past experiences, as well as the identified challenge of the performance standard objectives (Soupir-Fremstad, 2013). Teacher Escalante managed to embrace all these attributes to persuade his average Latino students to work hard and stay disciplined to achieve their primary goal: to pass the Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus examination. For example, Escalante managed to convince his Latino students to take one of the most challenging math programs in the U.S. despite their ordinary skills and social problems. He saw the potential in them and was determined to ensure they succeed. Some of the students received poor junior high school preparation in mathematics, while some came from challenging home situations. All that never matter to him. Escalante ensured his students revised previous copies of AP tests, received handouts from other sources, followed a strict 8.00 am to 7.30 pm program, and received after-class tutoring. He made them believe that using these routines and trusting in their abilities can guarantee them success (IMDB, n.d.).
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The second Expectancy Theory variable employed by tutor Escalante is ‘instrumentality,’ which is the general certainty or confidence that an individual will obtain a reward if the outcome or performance (P) expectation is achieved (Soupir-Fremstad, 2013). Escalante used several elements of instrumentality to ensure his students understand the relationship between their performance and the outcome. Most fundamentally, he made his students believe that passing the AP Calculus program with better grades can guarantee better jobs and a bright future. In the movie, a majority of the learners were from poor backgrounds with very challenging upbringing. Most were into drugs and the dangerous Los Angeles street-life, including gang involvement. Even though at first a majority was reluctant to join his APA Calculus group, Escalante never gave up. He reached out to them and listened to their problems ensuring they understand they stand a better chance of improving their lives if they took the test (IMDB, n.d.).
The last Expectancy Theory aspect employed by Escalante is ‘valence,’ a critical value a person places on befits of a result or outcome. These values vary depending on the goals, preferences, needs, and sources of encouragement. Thus, valence is typified and exemplified by the level an individual appreciates or values a particular reward or outcome (Soupir-Fremstad, 2013). In Stand and Deliver, Escalante used the word ‘Ganas’ to encourage his students to achieve a desirable outcome. Ganas is a famous Spanish word that means to carry out something with enthusiasm, willingness, determination, and discipline. He made a goal for them by ensuring they acted like ‘Ganas’ and used it as a slogan when learning calculus. This is evidenced by their success in the repeat test offered to them after the nullification of the first results due to the alleged irregularities (IMDB, n.d.).
In summary, it can be deduced that the Expectancy Theory applies to the Stand and Deliver in myriad ways. Escalante proves throughout the film that the use of valence, instrumentality, and expectancy can yield better outcomes. Good effort results in good performance, which leads to great rewards, hence motivating individuals. The movie is a perfect example of how the Expectancy Theory can foster organizational motivation and success.
References
IMDB. (n.d.). Stand and Deliver (1988). Retrieved from https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094027/
Soupir-Fremstad, J .S. (2013). The Expectancy Theory: Teacher's perspectives on motivation and compensation. Electronics Dissertations.
