Learning From One’s Mistakes

Abstract

Abstract. Optimistic performance estimates tend to diminish as performance and feedback draw near, yet it is unclear what contributes to subsequent performance estimates after feedback. At multiple time points, 166 undergraduates estimated their performance on two exams within a course, which was then compared to their actual exam scores. Along with assessing accuracy and shifts in estimates as performance and feedback drew near, the current study explored the mechanisms involved in “learning from one’s mistakes” by examining what happens after feedback on actual performance. We assessed the post-feedback emotional impact of performance estimates and identified predictors of subsequent estimates and later performance. Although, individuals overestimated their performance for both exams, feedback on Exam 1 resulted in significantly lower estimates for Exam 2. Irrespective of actual performance, higher expectations detrimentally impacted emotional responses to feedback, prior estimates played a central role in predicting subsequent estimates, and various predictors of actual subsequent performance were identified. Findings contribute to understanding changes in pre- to post-feedback performance expectations and identify predictive factors of post-feedback performance estimates and later performance.