The Pygmalion Effect across Academic Levels in an HBCU: Reflections on Service-Learning Experiences

Abstract

This study relates to the Pygmalion Effect, a type of self-fulfilling prophecy, as initiated and observed among undergraduate hybrid and graduate online students in a historically black institution of higher education (HBCU). The study purpose is to examine the documented Pygmalion Effect occurring within student teams in Service-Learning courses. Results evidence a stronger effect on students’ goals- personal, academic, and professional- in comparison to institutional goals. The study also covers the match between goals set by the professor, and goals achievement perceived by students. Further, differences across different academic levels are observed and discussed. Study limitations, contributions, and directions for future research are also discussed.