The Use of Time Contracts in Formal Education

Abstract

Time contracts offer a simple way to enable students to gain responsibility for their learning. Time contracts were offered to students in five marketing courses at the Wharton school and over BO% of the students selected this option. In comparison to their typical course, these students spent more time, felt more responsible for their learning, and reported more success in changing their attitudes and behavior. They did not gain more knowledge nor did they rate either the course or instructor higher.