Teacher expectations

Definition

Teacher expectations refer to the beliefs and assumptions that educators hold about their students' abilities, potential, and behavior. These expectations can significantly influence students' performance and motivation, shaping their academic experiences and self-perception. When teachers believe in a student's capabilities, it can lead to higher achievement, while low expectations can hinder a student's progress and self-esteem.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Research shows that high teacher expectations can lead to improved student performance, particularly among marginalized groups.
2. Teachers often unconsciously communicate their expectations through body language, feedback, and classroom interactions.
3. Students tend to internalize teachers' expectations, influencing their own beliefs about their abilities.
4. Positive teacher expectations can foster a supportive learning environment that encourages risk-taking and resilience in students.
5. Conversely, low expectations can create a negative feedback loop that impacts students' academic motivation and engagement.

Review Questions

• How do teacher expectations influence student performance and motivation?
  • Teacher expectations play a crucial role in shaping student performance and motivation. When educators hold high expectations for their students, it often leads to greater academic achievement as students feel encouraged to strive for success. Conversely, if teachers have low expectations, students may internalize these beliefs, resulting in decreased motivation and lower performance. This dynamic highlights the power of teachers' beliefs in either fostering or hindering student potential.
• What are some ways teachers can manage their expectations to support all students effectively?
  • Teachers can manage their expectations by being aware of their biases and actively working to challenge stereotypes that may influence their beliefs about students. Providing equal opportunities for participation, offering constructive feedback, and creating an inclusive classroom environment are effective strategies. Additionally, setting individualized goals based on each student's needs and strengths can help ensure that all students feel valued and capable of success, regardless of preconceived notions.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of teacher expectations on student identity formation and career aspirations.
  • Long-term effects of teacher expectations significantly impact student identity formation and career aspirations. When teachers communicate high expectations, students are more likely to develop a strong academic self-concept and pursue ambitious goals. This encouragement helps shape their future career choices, fostering aspirations aligned with their abilities. In contrast, negative expectations can limit students’ views of themselves and their potential, leading to decreased ambition and fewer opportunities in the workforce. The interplay between teacher expectations and student identity is crucial for understanding educational outcomes.

Related terms

self-fulfilling prophecy: A psychological phenomenon where a belief or expectation about a person leads to behavior that causes the belief to come true.

stereotype threat: The risk of confirming negative stereotypes about a social group, which can negatively affect an individual's performance.

growth mindset: The belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work, promoting resilience and a love for learning.