ABSTRACT This study explores the relationship between gender and class-specific self-efficacy in undergraduate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses, with a focus on the impact of pedagogical practices. Data from 483 students surveyed during the first weeks of their courses provide insights into how gender interacts with age, race, generational status, and study field to shape students’ perceived confidence in understanding material, mastering skills, and performing well in assessments. Female and gender diverse students reported lower self-efficacy than male students, with variations across demographic groups. A mid-semester focus group with female and gender diverse participants identified key pedagogical factors – supportive student-staff relationships, positive class atmosphere, and teaching and assessment practices that prioritise student comfort and knowledge application – that help enhance self-efficacy. These findings underscore the role of targeted pedagogical interventions in reducing the gender gap in self-efficacy and fostering more inclusive learning environments in undergraduate STEM.
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