Lately, I’ve been reading about self-efficacy, the idea that our beliefs about our abilities influence the outcome of an event. Briefly stated, when you believe you can do something, you are more likely to work hard, persevere when the task becomes difficult, attempt multiple solutions… you’re more likely to succeed.
Self-efficacy can be a powerful tool in our classrooms. As educators, we deliver messages to students each day that either affirm or challenge their beliefs in their abilities. A primary influence is what others tell us about our abilities. This resonates with what we know about assets… When we focus on the strengths of young people, we promote thriving behaviors.
One of the really neat things about self-efficacy in the classroom is that it applies to us as well as to our students. The beliefs we have in ourselves as educators, in our peers, and in our school influence our behaviors and the actual outcomes of our actions. When all other variables (such as ability) are kept equal, schools that BELIEVE in their students and teachers tend to have higher performing students.
As the school year starts, take a few minutes to reflect on your beliefs. Ask yourself the following questions.
1. What do I do or say that lets my students know that I believe in their ability to be successful? What do I do in this same vein to support and empower my peers?
2. To what extent do I believe in my ability to influence my students in positive ways?
3. What’s it mean to be a teacher in my school? What are the unwritten “beliefs” shared by our staff? What impact do these beliefs have on our students (I can assure you that they DO have an impact !)
Use your reflection to inspire action. Be a vocal advocate for your students and peers. Find ways to let students and other staff members know you believe in their abilities. Never doubt your ability to make a difference.
“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek” Barack Obama
Scott G. Butler, MS
Assistant Principal
Beadle Middle School
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