Influence of Teacher Expectations
For this evaluation, I am going to evaluate how students with ages ranging between eighteen and nineteen years are usually affected by teacher expectations. There are three main ways through which teacher expectations can potentially influence a student’s academic performance. These methods are explained as follows.
The kinds of expectations placed on this class of students are quite demanding. Consequently, the results achieved at the end of any specified assignment or academic year will be proportional to those expectations. For instance, the teacher may come up with seemingly unattainable expectations. The student may feel overwhelmed and thus instead of reacting positively towards the achievement of those expectations, he/she may deviate further from them.
The second way in which teacher expectations influences a student’s academic performance involves a situation whereby the student is comfortable with the formulated expectation and actively works towards the achievement of that particular goal. This later culminates to enhanced academic performance as compared to the period before the formulation of that particular academic expectation.
However, not all students in this age group will respond in any of the above two ways. There is a possibility that the student can display indifference towards a specified academic expectation. Consequently, the students’ academic performance reports no substantial growth nor does it indicate signs of deterioration.
Expectations that Positively Influence Academic Performance
Although most of the teacher expectations are meant to impact positively on a student’s academic performance, there still exists the possibility of the opposite effect occurring as has been indicated previously. However, the following five expectations are usually guaranteed to render positive influence provided that they are implemented fully and according to the correct procedure.
Setting realistic expectations
The most common cause of failed academic achievements is attributable to the formulation of expectations that are above par with the students’ level of understanding. Formulating an academic expectation that is both challenging and lies within their scope of achievement will ensure positive influence on their academic performance.
Completion of Assignments
If students invest quality time into the completion of their home work and designated individual or group assignments, then the possibilities of achieving higher academic performance will be enhanced.
Honesty
The value of honesty comprises the list of the most crucial expectations required of students by their teachers. It is a crucial ingredient when it comes to the formulation of an all round personality, especially in academic performance. According to Lipson (n.d) honesty is vital for a students’ education.
Active Participation
One of the ways through which a student can improve their academic performance is via active participation. As opposed to passive participation, active participation allows a student to keep track of the course of events while at the same time allowing them to ask questions as well as seek further clarification on key points
Lesson Attendance
It would be virtually impossible to guarantee exceptional academic performance if a student keeps on failing to show up for lessons. Students are expected to attend all classes without fail. Research has shown that a students’ potential to succeed does not originate from what they read, but from what they hear and say in class.
Conclusion
Teacher expectations play a pivotal role in influencing a student’s academic performance. This influence can either be positive, neutral or negative. The main teacher expectations that can guarantee positive academic performance include but are not limited to formulation of realistic expectations, completion and submission of assignments, honesty, active student participation and good lesson attendance.
Reference
Lipson, C. (n.d). A talk for university students. Why Honesty Matters in Your Education. Web.