Joseph Blake Smith. “I'm not up to the task.” “I'll never be as good as they are at X.” “If only I could learn as quickly as they do.” As a middle school teacher, I see these types of thoughts in the minds of many students who struggle to see their own abilities and who tell themselves limiting stories. This negative self-talk can be especially problematic for learners who are adjusting to personalized learning contexts.
The Importance of Self-Efficacy in the Identity of a Learner
As previously stated, identity is the key factor that leads to learner empowerment via the processes of self-understanding, self-belonging, and self-discovery. Navigating one's identity, particularly during adolescence, can be a difficult process. So, how do we assist learners in navigating their identities? How do we assist them in discovering and defining their own potential, as well as empowering them to take ownership of their learning processes? Self-efficacy for learning tasks is an important aspect of one's identity. Joseph Blake Smith Little Rock