What is the likely impact of a teacher's low expectations for lower-achieving students?

A teacher's low expectations for lower-achieving students can have a profound impact on their self-perception and motivation. When a teacher communicates that they do not expect much from these students, it can reinforce the belief that they are not capable of achieving higher academic success. This negative reinforcement can lead to a cycle where the students internalize these low expectations, ultimately contributing to a lack of confidence in their abilities.

Such an environment can diminish their enthusiasm for learning and limit their engagement in academic activities, as they may feel that their efforts are not valued or unlikely to lead to success. This reinforces the notion that effort is futile, and as a result, students may disengage from the learning process altogether. Therefore, the impact of low expectations creates a significant barrier to student achievement and personal growth.