How
much and how effectively we learn can depend on how confident
we feel about our abilities.
Learners'
experiences
When I was at school, I didn't do well. I had no confidence
and I couldn't wait to leave. So when I had to learn English
as an adult for my job, I didn't think I would ever be
able to remember all the vocabulary, spellings and tenses
- let alone have a conversation. I didn't look forward
to those classes at all."
Javier Farje, Peru
Don't
set yourself unrealistic goals: give yourself time to
achieve your aims. Make sure your teacher and your class
are aware of them so they can help you realise them.
Don't
be put off by others' seeming self-confidence. Remember
that everyone finds learning difficult at one time or
another, it's just that they may be better at hiding it
than you!
Don't
worry about getting things wrong or failing in public.
Be supportive of others and they will do the same for
you. Failing is an important part of learning and providing
a positive environment by supporting others will help
you all to progress.
Increasing
your confidence
