The Confidence Factor: Why Believing in Themselves Helps Students Succeed in STEM
When it comes to excelling in STEM—science, technology, engineering, and math—most people think about IQ, problem-solving, or access to quality education. But one factor that’s often overlooked is confidence. At Kente Academy, we see every day how students’ belief in their abilities can influence not only how they learn, but how far they go.
Confidence isn’t just about self-esteem. It’s a key ingredient in STEM success.
What the Research Says
Studies in education and psychology have repeatedly shown that students who believe they can do well in STEM are more likely to succeed—regardless of their initial performance. This idea is part of what’s known as “self-efficacy,” or the belief in one’s own ability to solve problems and handle challenges.
According to a study published in Child Development, students who had high confidence in their math abilities performed better on standardized tests than those who had low confidence—even when their skill levels were similar.
Confidence doesn’t guarantee success, but it changes how students respond to difficulty. When students lack confidence, a tough homework assignment can feel like proof they’re “not good at math.” But when they believe they can improve, they’re more likely to stick with it, ask questions, and get better.
Why Confidence Matters Even More in STEM
STEM subjects often come with a reputation for being “hard.” Many students—even very young ones—internalize the idea that some people are just “math people” or “science people.” This belief becomes a barrier long before students reach high school or start thinking about college.
Confidence bridges the gap between potential and performance. It helps students:
• Take academic risks (trying difficult problems or new tools)
• Ask for help when needed
• Stay motivated through challenges
• Feel proud of small improvements and progress
The best students aren’t always the ones who get everything right the first time—they’re the ones who believe they can figure it out with effort and support.
What Parents Can Do to Build STEM Confidence
Parents play a powerful role in shaping how students see themselves in STEM. Here are a few ways to help build confidence at home:
1. Focus on Effort, Not Just Results
Praise your child’s process: “I noticed how hard you worked to figure that out” instead of “You’re so smart.” This encourages a growth mindset—believing that abilities grow with practice.
2. Normalize Mistakes
Make it clear that getting the wrong answer isn’t failure—it’s part of learning. Share your own experiences struggling through tough math or solving everyday problems.
3. Encourage Curiosity
Let your child explore topics they’re interested in, even if it’s outside the school curriculum. A love of learning builds confidence that goes beyond grades.
4. Celebrate Progress
Recognize improvements, not just final results. If your child moved from a C to a B in math or asked more questions in class, that’s worth celebrating.
How Kente Academy Supports STEM Confidence
At Kente Academy, we know that building confidence is just as important as teaching content. That’s why we design every tutoring session and coaching program to support both academic mastery and personal growth.
We help students:
• Set realistic goals and track progress
• Learn how to talk through their thinking
• Gain strategies for overcoming test anxiety
• Work through challenges with encouragement and coaching
We also keep parents informed so that support continues at home, creating a strong foundation for lasting STEM success.
Final Thoughts
STEM isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about believing that you can. The students who thrive in math and science aren’t always the ones who start out with the highest grades. They’re the ones who believe in themselves, bounce back from mistakes, and keep going when things get tough.
Confidence can’t be handed to a student—but it can be built, one step at a time.
And when students learn to trust their abilities, there’s no limit to what they can achieve.
