Essay
Analysis of Expectancy Theory in Stand and Deliver
- Course
- ORGB3201
- Institution
- Northeastern University
an analysis of the film Stand and Deliver to illustrate the power and concept of Expectancy Theory
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The Power of Expectancy Theory in Stand and DeliverIntroduction
Expectancy theory argues that an individual’s level of motivation relies on three
perceptions of their situation: expectancy (the probability of success), instrumentality (the
probability of receiving a reward), and valence (the value of the reward itself). This paper
analyzes the 1988 film Stand and Deliver to explore and emphasize Jamie Escalante’s
implementation of expectancy theory as he motivates his students to invest in their education by
influencing the perceived expectancy, instrumentality, and valence of the undertaking.
Expectancy
Expectancy comes from the belief that your hard work will lead to success. Throughout
the film, Escalante works to instill confidence in his students to increase this belief. He achieves
this feat through his unique teaching methods, as he consistently explains mathematical concepts
in simplified terms and reinforces the idea that math is easy.
To explain positive and negative numbers, he utilizes an analogy of scooping up sand at
the beach (creating a negative) and returning the sand to the hole (adding a positive). This
simplification instills confidence in Escalante’s students as they begin to understand that math is
not an impossible subject to learn. Escalante further instills confidence in his students, all of
whom possess Latino heritage, by explaining that the Mayans (their ancestors) invented the zero.
He emphasizes that math is in his students’ blood, further solidifying the notion that if they try,
they will succeed. Moreover, when students answer a question incorrectly, Escalante affirms that
the question is not difficult. This attitude empowers students to believe that they can solve the
math problems confronting them.
By explaining concepts in simplified terms and reinforcing the idea that his students are
capable of learning math, Escalante removes the barriers in his students' minds that make them
believe they will not succeed, thereby motivating them toward achievement.
Instrumentality
The instrumentality of a situation stems from understanding the actions you must perform
and the belief that your performance will translate to positive outcomes. Throughout the film,
Escalante establishes various norms for his class – e.g. arriving on time and prepared, working
hard, and possessing “ganas” (desire). These norms help Escalante’s students understand what is
expected of them to perform well in class. To recognize what is expected of them to do well on
Disclaimer: This analysis is 100% my original work. I have not used Chat GPT or the work of others to develop my response.
– Mia Huebscher
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