The Mediational Role of Engagement in the Relationship Between Curiosity and Student Development: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

This paper examines relationships among curiosity, engagement, and student development across fve domains—(1) cognitive complexity, (2) knowledge acquisition, construction, integration, and application, (3) humanitarianism and civic engagement, (4) intrapersonal and interpersonal development, and (5) practical competence. Although extant research examines antecedents and outcomes of engagement extensively, no study explicitly assesses curiosity, engagement, and student development. Results suggest that engagement mediates epistemic and perceptual types of curiosity and student development. Educators and administrators can use these fndings to create engaging education during which curiosity swiftly transforms into holistic student development.

Keywords Engagement , Curiosity , Student development , Mediation