How to Build Confidence in the Classroom

Be inspiring as a teacher.

As a teacher, you know that your job entails more than just imparting education to your students. You are also responsible for building confidence in your classroom. Making sure the students know the correct answers is part of the job, but you must create a safe learning environment where students can feel comfortable to make errors, knowing you will help them to correct themselves. By being constructive and supportive, you can create a safe classroom where your students will be confident and comfortable in their learning.

Instructions

1. Give feedback in a constructive manner, and offer corrective advice in a way that is sensitive to the student.

2. Allow the students to make mistakes without shame. Do not ignore mistakes or problems, but address them in a respectful, mature way--just like you expect your students to do.

3. Set a high standard for your students, and encourage them to do the same. Create challenging opportunities that will allow students to experience and enjoy feelings of success.

4. Give your students leadership opportunities where they feel responsible and successful. Opportunities include helping with video equipment, or being a bus safety or line leader.

5. Help students identify and improve upon their weaknesses. Help your students to develop ways to improve problem areas rather than just ignore them.

References

• Carleton College: Motivating Students
• Tools for Teaching: Motivating Students

Resources

• Mind Tools: Building Self-Confidence