Brief, supportive messages offered to learners prior to or during evaluations can positively influence their mindset and performance. These sentiments may range from general affirmations of competence to specific reminders of test-taking strategies. For example, a note might state, “You have prepared well; trust your knowledge,” or, “Remember to review each question carefully.”
Offering positive affirmations reduces anxiety, builds confidence, and ultimately fosters a more conducive testing environment. These actions communicate care and support, which can improve students’ emotional states. Historically, educators have recognized the impact of emotional support on student achievement, leading to the use of various methods to create a positive and encouraging atmosphere around assessments.
