How to Build a Student's Self Confidence

Educating students means more than giving them academic knowledge. Simply knowing a correct response doesn't give a student the confidence to raise his hand to answer a question. Students perform best in constructive learning environments. You can ease student insecurities with a variety of activities that build confidence and eliminate negativity.

Instructions

1. Provide leadership opportunities for students. Cultivate important characteristics, including responsibility and independence by assigning students to different classroom roles. Suitable jobs include hall monitors, audio-visual assistants and classroom helpers. Mastering different duties can help build confidence and erase fear of trying new experiences.

2. Set attainable goals for each student. Realize that overcoming doubt to achieve objectives helps build student confidence. Engage in ongoing dialogue regarding your expectations and their individual progress. Reward students for meeting challenges, while persuading struggling students back on track.

3. Give constructive feedback to help reduce weaknesses and enhance strengths. Teach students that self-confidence isn't built from being spoiled with praise. Remain honest with each student to encourage her to address problems, instead of avoiding or denying their existence. Make corrections without damaging your student's confidence.

4. Encourage students to set high standards for themselves. Reassure students that they are capable of achieving greatness. Reinforce this message with age-appropriate examples and literature. Provide consistent encouragement to students to show your commitment to their success.

5. Push students to improve their weaknesses. Realize that conquering difficult tasks builds mental toughness and fosters persistence. Relay this message to your students by asking each one to write a goal that focuses on improving a weak area. Help your students develop relevant attack plans.

Tips & Warnings

• While encouraging students to progress in their strong suits can help build confidence, inspiring them to address their weaknesses can be even more useful.

References

• Tools for Teaching: Motivating Students
• Mind Tools: Building Self-Confidence

Resources

• Motivating Students