The Effect of Time-bound Definiteness on Cognitive Learning Performance

Abstract

Time is a precious resource that is closely linked to everyone so it is important to play the maximum value of time. Some research show that definite limit of time can affect the attitude to time and then help people to use time efficiently. In order to explore the theoretical significance and practical value of time and time-bound definiteness, this study examined the effect of time-bound definiteness on cognitive learning performance and the mediating effect of time stress. 33 college students were recruited and randomly divided into time-definiteness (n = 16) and time-indefiniteness groups (n = 17), and dependent variable cognitive learning performance was measured by American College Test with controlling attention stability. The results showed that: (1) the time-bound definiteness improved the cognitive learning performance significantly; (2) the mediating effect of time pressure between time-bound definiteness and cognitive learning performance was not significant. The time-bound definiteness could provide a new route to the development of time perception and management, which has academic prospect and deserves to be used in more applied researches. This study provides a remedy for vacancies in the study of time-bound definiteness, and offers valuable suggestions for self-discipline in many areas such as education and economic management.