Efficacy (Bandura, 1977) is connected to agency – the ability to make things happen – and to confidence. Meta-analyses by Eels (2011) and Cogaltay & Karadag (2017) show that staff and students with a high sense of self-efficacy are better able to make progress towards their aspirations. This research also shows that the best source for developing self-efficacy is overcoming challenges (Ciftci & Yildiz, 2019).

To help build this concept in the classroom, it can be useful to begin with the Learning Pit. This model was first proposed by James Nottingham in the late 1990s and is now used worldwide. It encourages students to step out of their comfort zone, approach obstacles more strategically, collaborate more effectively, and articulate their progress accurately. It can also support learners who strive to be inquirers, thinkers, risk-takers, open-minded and reflective. Practical approaches to help students articulate their progress accurately.