Self-Efficacy

Watch this short video for an introduction to Self-Efficacy...

How is Self-Efficacy different from Self-Confidence?

While they are related, Self-Efficacy is a bit different from Self-Confidence in a way that is helpful to understand when guiding someone's learning.

Self-Confidence is your confidence in your ability to do something.

Self-Efficacy is your confidence in your ability to learn how to do something.

For example, when showing up for your first DEI-related workshop, you would probably feel anxious about what will be expected of you and whether you will say something that upsets people (Self-Confidence). But once you have attended several DEI-related workshops, while you still might not know exactly what will be expected of you, your experience will probably leave you feeling better prepared for whatever you are asked to do (Self-Efficacy).

How is Self-Efficacy relevant to giving feedback?

You might notice some similarities between Self-Efficacy and Growth Mindset. And, as we've already discussed, feedback can have a significant impact on someone's mindset and confidence in their own abilities. Feedback can help facilitate learning and growth, and messages of encouragement embedded in the feedback can build someone's confidence in their ability to learn and grow.