Overview

Report title: Gather. Grow. Graduate.​

Source: Behavioral Economics Team of the Australian Government (BETA)​

Year published: 2021

Sources
Categories
Preparation & Entry
Context
  • Disadvantaged students face persistently high dropout risks, often driven by low resilience, social isolation, and negative self-beliefs​
  • These behavioural frictions are not addressed by traditional academic reforms, prompting interest in tech-based, behavioural tools​
  • The Grok mobile app aimed to build psychological adaptability through self-reflection, peer connection, and mindset nudges
Outcomes
  • A large-scale RCT showed no statistically significant improvement in grades, completion, or wellbeing among app users​
  • Only 29% of students engaged meaningfully with the app; most completed fewer than 10 activities​
  • However, qualitative feedback highlighted that active users found the app helpful for reframing thinking and building social connections
Implications
  • Integrate behavioural nudges into core academic systems—embed short activities into classroom modules, advising sessions, or onboarding rather than relying on standalone apps​
  • Leverage low-friction delivery channels—repurpose Grok content into SMS nudges, bite-sized email sequences, or push notifications tied to real academic milestones​
  • Bundle behavioural supports with institutional touchpoints—link mindset and identity-building exercises to academic advising, peer mentoring, or student support offices to ensure relevance, accountability, and reach
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