reversal theory

a theory of motivation, emotion, and personality that attempts to explain the relationship between arousal and performance. It suggests that the way an individual interprets the arousal, rather than the amount of arousal, affects performance and that the individual can reverse the positive–negative interpretation from moment to moment.

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Psychology term of the day

January 28th 2025

summative evaluation

1. the appraisal of a student’s achievement at the conclusion of an educational program. Also called terminal assessment.

2. in evaluation research, an attempt to assess the overall effectiveness of a program in meeting its objectives and goals after it is in operation. This is in contrast to formative evaluation, which is used to help in the development of the program. Also called ex post facto evaluation. See also outcome evaluation.