Final answer:
Student self-efficacy according to Bandura's theory is most closely related to expectancy, which is the belief that one's efforts will result in success.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Bandura's theory, student self-efficacy is most similar to expectancy (option b). Self-efficacy is defined as an individual's belief in their own abilities to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task. This belief in one's own abilities is crucial for motivation and performance within the academic arena. High self-efficacy contributes to setting challenging goals and persisting in the face of obstacles, whereas low self-efficacy can lead to avoidance of difficult tasks and a focus on personal failures.
To clarify, while locus of control concerns beliefs about the degree of control one has over life events, self-efficacy pertains to one's confidence in successfully performing tasks. Likewise, while self-esteem relates to our overall sense of self-worth, self-efficacy is more task-specific. Therefore, self-efficacy is more aligned with expectancy, which involves anticipation that one's effort will lead to success.