SelfEfficacy by Prof. Bandura, Ch. 6 TDC is is MUST READ!

I read the section in the Web Info section of our Teacher's Discovering Computers companion site titled, Self-Efficacy by Prof. Bandura and believe all teachers should read this. It briefly reiterates the old adage that, whether you believe you can or you can't, you are probably right. Bandura wrote that people who believe they are capable of success are more apt to be successful and are less likely to suffer from depression. This view of possible success influences the cognitive side of the brain (how one thinks), the affective side of the brain (how one feels, emotions), how one acts a(behaves), and how one motivates oneself.

The ability to view ourselves as capable begins at an early age and is directly influenced by parents, peers, educators and life's accomplishments and failures throughout life. Self-Efficacy is taught and nurtured.

Teachers can help develop self-efficacy by noting a child's developmental ability and creating situations where they have to exert some effort but success is possible. Passive praise is important but must be connected to effort. For example, praise a child for working diligently, not just for a good grade.

To me, it is a behemoth responsibility because people who do not learn to believe they can do things are more likely to develop depression and be less successful in life. There are long term individual and societal implications. I urge all teachers past, present and future to read this article and heed Bandura's advice! Here is the link: Self-Efficacy