A strange phenomenon occurs in schools, where a teacher’s meticulously organized classroom wall of procedures and reminders often goes unnoticed by students. However, when a student adds a single sticky note with a tip or shortcut, it suddenly gains everyone’s attention.
This phenomenon is related to the IKEA effect, a concept where people become emotionally connected to things they help create. Researchers have found that this sense of value is not solely explained by ownership or effort, but rather by the fact that people become invested in things that reflect their sense of identity.
Compliance vs. Commitment
Many schools focus on building systems that prioritize compliance, which can create short-term order but often lacks long-term commitment. In contrast, commitment grows when people feel psychologically connected to their environment.
The IKEA effect suggests that humans naturally value things that have their fingerprints on them. This has significant implications for schools, as the strongest cultures are often built with the involvement of students and staff, rather than for them.
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Building Ownership
When students and staff are involved in setting up initiatives and goals, they begin to refer to them as “our expectations” and “our school.” This shift in ownership changes motivation and creates a sense of commitment.
For example, in one classroom, students were asked to establish community principles at the beginning of the year. They narrowed down their ideas to five essential principles, which were then used to guide classroom procedures and expectations. As a result, students were more likely to protect the norms they helped create.
Strategies for Boosting Motivation
There are several ways schools can use the IKEA effect to boost motivation. One approach is to involve people in building systems, such as inviting teachers into conversations about hiring and school improvement planning.
Another strategy is to turn people into contributors, not consumers. This can be achieved by giving staff, teachers, and families meaningful responsibilities, such as leading professional learning, shaping school initiatives, or contributing to school events.
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Including people in problem-solving conversations is also essential. By involving students, teachers, and staff in conversations about improving school systems, schools can build shared ownership and create a sense of commitment.
When people feel like they belong and their voice matters, they are more likely to be committed to the school and its goals. The IKEA effect ultimately points to a larger truth: people are more committed when they can see themselves inside the work.
As schools strive to build stronger cultures, they must prioritize creating opportunities for contribution and shared ownership. By doing so, they can tap into the IKEA effect and create a sense of belonging that changes behavior and motivates people to take action.
They are more likely to take action.
