LACK OF CONFIDENCE AMONG STUDENTS

ABSTRACT

A Teacher quite often might face problematic situations that are specific to his class .The solution for which cannot be arrived by normal strategies . In such cases teacher will have to explore the problematic situation, with the spirit of a researcher. Here the author during her induction period experienced a problem among students and conducts the action research and finds the solution for the problem

 KEY WORDS: Lack of confidence, Judgements, Anxiety.

INTRODUCTION:

 In the dynamic landscape of education, one prevailing concern is the noticeable hesitancy among school students to actively participate in class discussions. This article aims to explore the roots of this issue, its impact on academic engagement, and potential strategies to encourage a more confident and inclusive learning environment.

Defining the problem:
Class hours are the important area to measure the students level of understanding and through student responses teacher can analyze how effective is the class. The lack of answering during the class shows the lack of confidence or they may not feel psychologically safe answering the question face-to-face they are not confident to express their ideas, doubts and answers they already know. It will limit their potential and have long term consequences for their personal and professional development. It will effect their performance in co-curricular activities and in interviews.

Analyzing the causes:
The reluctance of students to ask questions or share their thoughts during class is an issue of social anxiety, fear of judgement and a lack of self confidence. These are the common factors contributing to this phenomenon. Students may perceive their questions as inadequate or fear embarrassment, hindering their willingness to engage in meaningful discourse. Consequences of this lack of confidence extend beyond the classrooms. Students who refrain from participating may miss valuable opportunities to clarify doubts, deepen their understanding and enhance critical thinking skills. Furthermore, a passive learning environment can hinder the development of effective communication skills, a crucial aspect of personal and professional growth.

RECOMMENDATIONS:
To address this challenge, educators and institutions should consider implementing strategies that foster a positive and encouraging atmosphere. Classroom activities promoting peer collaboration, small group discussions and anonymous question submission can alleviate the fear of judgement. Additionally incorporating positive reinforcement and constructive feedback can boost students confidence overtime.

                            Students during school times sometimes have difficulty to perform well in class at the same time they are able to answer the questions in the exams. Most of the students are less attentive in the class and try to avoid questions in between class. Most of these students are byhearting  the definitions and notes without knowing the concepts and facts taught during the class. They even neglect their doubt during each session.

Teacher-student relationships: Building strong teacher-student relationships is crucial in instilling confidence. Teachers can actively create a supportive space where students feel valued and encouraged to express themselves. Recognizing and praising student contributions, no matter how small , can significantly impact their willingness to engage in future discussions.

Technology: Utilizing technology can also play a role in mitigating the lack of confidence. Online platforms for discussions, virtual classrooms and digital collaboration tools provide alternative avenues for students to express themselves. These platforms offer a level of anonymity that can empower students who may be hesitant in traditional classroom settings .

CONCLUSION:

Addressing the lack of confidence among students in classroom participation requires a comprehensive approach that considers both individual and systemic factors. By fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment, educators can empower students to overcome their fears, enhance their academic performance and develop crucial life skills. It is imperative for schools and educators to prioritize strategies that unlock the voices of every student, ensuring a richer and more engaging experience for all.