Self-esteemis the value we place on ourselves. If there is a gap between what we think of ourselves and what we would like to be, then we say our self-esteem is low. Children often develop low self-esteem from negative responses from other people. Instead we need to ensure positive feedbackand a sense ofbeing respected(from praise, acceptance, being listened to and not laughed at, being understood, contributing ideas which are valued). This can increase enjoyment and encourage learners to learn by experimenting with language.
I How can teachers raise learner self-esteem?
Self-esteem can be developed by:
- good teacher-learner relationships
- ensuring successthrough careful planning and monitoring in the classroom having high expectationsof learners.
Further, it is also beneficial to encourage learners to reflect onand assess their own abilities.Such self-awareness gives them knowledge about how to learn successfully (which techniques work for them) and therefore gives greater confidenceabout their own competencies.