The role of vicarious experiences in the development of pre-service teachers’ classroom management self-efficacy beliefs

Abstract

ABSTRACT The present mixed-methods study investigated classroom management self-efficacy (CMSE) beliefs of early childhood pre-service teachers in Lebanon. Vicarious experiences, through observation of an in-service teacher, were analysed for efficiency in supporting the development of pre-service teachers’ CMSE beliefs. The sample consisted of 23 students who completed a pre- and post-observation survey measuring CMSE; five students participated in pre- and post-observation focus group interviews. Results indicated CMSE beliefs did not undergo a statistically significant change following pre-service teachers’ observations, but several trends were noted through the focus group interviews, including a shift from emphasising reactive behaviours to more proactive ones. All pre-service teachers voiced their desire for additional mastery experiences to aid in the development of their CMSE beliefs. Practical implications and recommendations were discussed.