An optimum level of self esteem has been associated with achievement. On the one hand, self esteem is learned in a social context. On the other, self esteem develops as people appreciate the value of their own efforts as they form, strive for and realize personal life goals. The climate of a classroom is important for appropriate self esteem in relation to learning.
Children can best develop self esteem in a climate where individual differences are appreciated.
They are helped by the setting of clear expectations in terms of classroom work, behaviour and relationships. They are also helped by the appreciation of the teacher and the other children, for their positive contributions to classroom life and learning. Competition with others for standard outcomes can be discouraging for many children and therefore not helpful to them in their learning. In project work children can compete in seeking divergent or alternative outcomes without such discouragement because the possibilities allow for alternative responses at many levels. Opportunities can be provided for children to contribute in original and creative ways.