Building self efficacy by fostering goal setting

Goal setting can be a powerful tool for students to use in building their own self efficacy. As well as student led goals, teachers can also give students goals to work on. As a teacher, one has to know the students well to set realistic and manageable goals for each student. A one size fits all model does not work here. We often discuss that our classrooms are differentiated to cater for our students and their learning abilities but are our expectations realistic for each student? 

In my practice and working on my teaching as inquiry, I have been discussing with each student their own journey in their learning. We have discussed their challenges in completing their tasks and how I as their teacher could be of help. We have also discussed how we can overcome challenges by seeking help from peers, whanau and self directed study. We have a long way to go yet with self directed study but making a start by asking the teacher or a peer is proving to be effective. My target learners are engaging in more discussions about their tasks where they share their ideas. The less confident students are not afraid to say they need help or say they do not understand. This is an improvement from getting stuck in their work then finding other activities to occupy their their time until it is time for their break or packing up for home.

I have always been a firm believer in the power of self realisation when one analyses their own performance or achievement. I did a task with my target learners where they reflected on their last project which was Architecture. They looked at their submission sheet for the Architecture project and summarised how many tasks they completed as well as make notes on how many Excellence, Merit, Achieved and Not Achieved tasks they had. As the students shared their reflections, they were very honest about their lack of effort, making simple mistakes and missing out on valuable points. It was also very evident they were very eager to ensure the current project which is Great Books would be an improvement. 

To set a goal, one has to realise where they are and their next goal for improvement. This was the purpose of this activity. Now the students are on a quest to ensure they complete all the tasks for the current project and working towards improving on the marks they receive.