Teacher confidence is context-dependent and grows with deliberate practice. Four levers: plan and anticipate, build relationships with learners, observe and get feedback from colleagues, and treat failures as feedback.
The four tips
- Plan and prepare: script task set-ups and instructions, check answer keys, use routines (think-pair-share), anticipate problems.
- Connect: learn interests early; personalise topics; show real interest in answers.
- Buddy up: observe experienced colleagues; ask for feedback on strengths; a community of practice.
- Be kind to yourself: positive self-talk; failures as feedback; build on strengths.
Evidence cited
Toropova et al. (2020); Wiens & Ruday (2014). Self-efficacy discussed without a source (Bandura 1997 is the origin, Claude).
Connections
Five things new teachers wish they’d known · Coaching vs mentoring - teachers showing up for teachers