2.3 How perceptions impact interactions with students

Being aware of how you perceive students is crucial. These perceptions not only reflect the students themselves but also reveal aspects of your own identity. Your perspective is shaped by your values, norms, beliefs, and life experiences, which can lead to unintentional stereotyping based on past encounters. It’s important to recognize that these images and stereotypes influence your relationships with students and parents.

You tend to pay special attention to behaviours that align with your preconceived image of a student, unintentionally reinforcing that image. However, behaviours that contradict your initial assumptions may go unnoticed, preventing you from adjusting your perception. For example, if a student is labelled as “passive,” you may primarily notice their passive behaviour while unconsciously disregarding their moments of activity and initiative. This limited perspective can hinder your ability to provide proper reinforcement for desired behaviours, potentially extinguishing them over time.

Gradually, your perception becomes a personal belief, and the student’s behaviour aligns with that belief. This phenomenon, known as a self-fulfilling prophecy, occurs as you interpret the student’s reactions as confirmation of your initial impression. Consequently, your image of the student solidifies, and they tend to adapt their behaviour accordingly.

To counteract these biases, it’s essential to regularly reflect on your perception of both the entire group and individual students. Take a moment to examine the basis of your image and how it influences your behaviour in positive or negative ways. By engaging in this reflective process, you can gain a deeper understanding of your students and work towards minimizing biases. By actively updating your perception and being aware of its impact, you can foster positive interactions with students and create a supportive learning environment where all students have equal opportunities to thrive. Regularly reassessing your biases and striving for fairness and impartiality in your interactions will contribute to a more inclusive and effective educational experience.