Management theory tends to be a
mandatory field of learning for all students of business studies. They will be
introduced to organisational theory, leadership theory and motivational theory,
among other fairly esoteric topics. But can an understanding of managerial
theory help with the management of learning in the classroom?
One such motivational theory was first advocated by Victor Vroom in 1964 and
has subsequently been refined by Lyman W. Porter and Edward E. Lawler. This concept
is commonly known as ’expectancy theory’. In simple terms, this theory contends
that individuals choose particular behaviours based on the outcomes that they
perceive such behaviours will lead to. The three main elements of the theory
are as follows:
1. Expectancy-the
belief that effort will lead to desired performance. Factors associated with
expectancy are self-efficacy, goal difficulty and control.
2. Instrumentality-the
belief that a reward will be forthcoming should the performance expectation be
met. Factors associated with instrumentality are trust, control and policies
3. Valence-the
value that the individual places on such rewards. Factors associated with
valence are values, needs, goals and preferences
