Final answer:
To avoid learned helplessness in a classroom, provide students with a sense of control, offer achievable challenges, and foster a supportive environment that nurtures intrinsic motivation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Learned helplessness is a psychological condition where an individual believes they lack control over their situation, leading to passivity and potential depression. To avoid learned helplessness in a classroom, teachers should cultivate an environment where students have some control over their learning and believe in their ability to influence outcomes. Providing challenging yet achievable tasks and de-emphasizing overly strict evaluative measures can bolster a student's sense of autonomy and intrinsic motivation.
An illustrative example comes from considering two contrasting law courses for a student named Hakim: one with an intimidating environment focused on quiz and exam results, and another that encourages discussion, debate, and a student-led research project. The supportive, empowering environment of the latter is more likely to motivate students intrinsically and prevent feelings of helplessness.
Overall, promoting student autonomy, nurturing a sense of competence, and fostering a supportive, respectful classroom climate are crucial strategies in preventing learned helplessness among students.