#24, Bribery

How much money would it take to get you to study harder?

Each month in class, you receive approximately five grades. An average grade for vocabulary quizzes, novel quizzes, listening tests, homework, and a Chapter Test. If PEAI were to offer you ₩50,000 at the end of each month to improve your grades, would you study harder?

The University of Chicago conducted a study to see if a bribing students to study would work. Bloom Trail High School in Chicago was chosen as the test school. Every month for the entire school year, the U of C offered $50 to students who could achieve a grade of C or higher in all their classes (world history, biology, physical education, English, art, computer). Further, one passing student was chosen by lottery for a $500 bonus every month.

What did the study find?

Of the 700 9th grade students, the $50 bribe increased passing rates by only 5-7%. The average cost per passing student was $2,800. $2,800just to get one measly student's grades above a C!

If this system were implemented in Korean public schools, how would the school environment change (think about the unintended consequences too)? How much would someone have to pay you to get A+'s in all your classes? Is an educational system based on bribery moral? Defend your position.

Optional: What rewards (if any) do your parents offer for good grades?

-Brenden Lee Teacher

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