A Comparison and Integration of Expectancy Theory and Task Dimensions with ROTC Cadets

Recent reviews of the empirical literature investigating expectancy theory and task design research suggest that little attempt has been made to conduct strong, inferential research in which various theories of this type are compared and/or integrated. The primary focus of the present study was to evaluate systematically and compare expectancy theory and a job characteristic approach. Analyses of 117 Army ROTC cadets offered support for the ability of both the VIE model and task dimensions to predict satisfaction and self-ratings of performance for cadets. Generally, however, the task dimensions and VIE cognitions were unsupportive for predictions of peer and instructor ratings. Further, hierarchical multiple regression analyses indicate that cadets' satisfaction and performance were affected by a variety of sources, including task perceptions and VIE cognitions. The data from this study also support the intervening links between task perceptions, cadets' expectations and their satisfaction and performance. Recommendations for further research considering the moderating effects of other attributes of the work environment on the task perception - VIE - satisfaction/performance relationship are discussed.