Learning and future time perspective: The promise of the future -rewarding in the present

Future Time Perspective (FTP) has been characterized by researchers as how far individuals plan into the future, how they perceive individual future needs, and the degree to which the present is connected to the past and future. FTP has important implications for individual learning, cultural and societal facets of learning, and for practical implementations in learning environments. As has been illustrated by several studies using Zimbardo’s Time Perspective Inventory, TP contributes to students’ motivation for learning, it influences students’ valuing of their coursework, the academic choices they make, and their persistence in the face of failure. Research has shown that future oriented students are likely to be more successful especially when classroom activities foster students’ FTP. Although a consideration of future consequences can be adaptive for learning, research from social, developmental and motivational psychology implies that focus on the future, without regard for the present, or how the future is connected to present action is not adaptive, rather consideration of the past, present, and future is necessary for optimal functioning. Research on Future Time Perspective and its influence on student learning has occurred in many varied cultural contexts. Social and cultural norms do influence students’ development of FTP. Fluctuating societal conditions may make it difficult to have an extended FTP. In this case faculty may need to utilize techniques in the classroom to help extend their students’ FTP.