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Uncertainty in a Borderline: Evidence from a Field Experiment

Author

Listed:
  • Shinya Kajitani

    (Meisei University and University of Melbourne)

  • Keiichi Morimoto

    (Department of Economics, Meisei University)

  • Shiba Suzuki

    (Faculty of Economics, Seikei University)

  • Shiba Suzuki

    (Faculty of Economics, Seikei University)

Abstract

Using a theoretical and experimental approach, this paper investigates the role of borderline uncertainty between success and failure in determining the input of effort by university students. By conducting a randomized experiment in an actual economics course in a Japanese university, we demonstrate that rank information feedback improves the performance of students with only average scores in the midterm examination, but harms the performance of high achieving students. We also construct a theoretical model of an uncertain borderline to interpret the experimental results. Our contribution is to demonstrate that the rank information can relate to the recognition of the borderline. In this case, the rank information feedback acting as an incentive scheme should vary for different types of students as a way to improve their motivation to learn.

Suggested Citation

  • Shinya Kajitani & Keiichi Morimoto & Shiba Suzuki & Shiba Suzuki, 2015. "Uncertainty in a Borderline: Evidence from a Field Experiment," Discussion Papers 30, Meisei University, School of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:mei:wpaper:30
    as

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    education; experiment; information feedback; relative rank; borderline;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments
    • D03 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Behavioral Microeconomics: Underlying Principles
    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty
    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education

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