In education, which practice is thought to enhance the likelihood of student success?

The concept of a self-fulfilling prophecy refers to the phenomenon where a person's expectations about another individual's performance can influence that individual's actual performance. In the educational context, when teachers hold high expectations for their students, it can lead to an environment that fosters motivation and confidence, encouraging students to perform better. This positive reinforcement creates a cycle where the expectation of success becomes a reality, as students rise to meet these expectations.

Conversely, if a teacher has low expectations, this can inhibit student performance and engagement, demonstrating how powerful the influence of belief and expectation can be in an educational setting. While other options, like standardized testing or collaborative learning, have their place in education, the self-fulfilling prophecy is distinct in its psychological impact on both students and instructors, making it a particularly profound practice for enhancing student success.