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 a TA starts their first ever drop-in help shift, they often feel anxious and not terribly confident in their ability to handle any question they might be asked (Self-Confidence). However, as someone gains more experience answering questions during drop-in help hours, the anxiety usually fades. They might not actually feel confident that they will know the answers to all the questions they are asked, but their experience has helped them develop their confidence in their ability to successfully navigate situations where they don't know the answer to a question (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.