Self-Efficacy in the Classroom: What Is It?

What is Self-Efficacy?

Self-Efficacy is a person’s fundamental belief in their own ability to succeed.

Goodness, what a beautiful goal for our students and our teaching- support students in their belief in themselves and their own competence, their own potential.

I have always told my students that, if I have done my job, I should not have to show up at the end of the year. The students should be able to get through a day of learning- and learn! – without me there. They should know the expectations, follow the schedule, use available resources, know resources available for support or extension.

It’s a lofty goal- but one they loved to stretch up to. (Sometimes I would purposefully NOT say anything for 10-15 minutes into class- just watching, pretending to be busy or distracted, letting them drive themselves.)

Very big goals start with very small pieces.

Start with setting up your space. (Link)

More reading on Self-Efficacy in the Classroom

Thoughtful Article on Self-Efficacy from Teach the Earth

Self-Efficacy Thoughts from Harvard Graduate School of Education

Self-Efficacy Defined and Encouraged from University of Wisconsin, Madison