Question 1

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'teacher self-efficacy' and its impact on educational outcomes?

Accepted Answer

A teacher's belief in their own ability to reach students and help them learn, which predicts student achievement and reduces teacher burnout.

Question 2

A school district is considering an intervention to improve reading scores. According to the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), what type of evidence should guide their decision?

Accepted Answer

Evidence from rigorous experiments indicating effectiveness, also known as evidence-based practices.

Question 3

Which research method is best suited to determine whether a new teaching strategy causes an improvement in student math scores?

Accepted Answer

Experimental study with random assignment to groups.

Question 4

A teacher notices that students who participate in after-school tutoring tend to have higher grades. What is the main limitation of concluding that tutoring causes higher grades based on this observation?

Accepted Answer

Correlation does not prove causation; other factors may explain the relationship.

Question 5

Which of the following is a key feature of Vygotsky’s concept of the 'zone of proximal development'?

Accepted Answer

The area between what a student can do independently and what they can do with guidance.

Question 6

A teacher uses open-ended questions and hands-on activities to help students understand conservation of mass. According to Piaget, which stage of cognitive development is this approach most appropriate for?

Accepted Answer

Concrete operational stage (ages 6 or 7 to 11 years)

Question 7

Which of the following best illustrates the concept of 'cultural tools' in Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory?

Accepted Answer

Using language, numbers, and graphs to solve problems and communicate ideas.

Question 8

A student feels anxious about confirming a negative stereotype about their ethnic group during a math test. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Stereotype threat

Question 9

According to Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological model, which system includes the direct interactions a student has with family, teachers, and peers?

Accepted Answer

Microsystem

Question 10

Which parenting style, according to Baumrind’s research, is most likely to result in children who do well in school and are happy?

Accepted Answer

Authoritative (high warmth, high control, high expectations)

Question 11

A teacher wants to support the development of self-regulation in students from low-SES backgrounds. Which strategy is most effective?

Accepted Answer

Teaching students how to organize, focus attention, and manage conflict.

Question 12

Which of the following is a criticism of Kohlberg’s theory of moral development?

Accepted Answer

It overlooks the role of care and relationships, especially in women and other cultures.

Question 13

A teacher is careful not to disclose information about students unless required by law or a compelling professional purpose. This practice aligns with which ethical principle?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the difference between qualitative and quantitative research in educational psychology?

Accepted Answer

Qualitative research uses words and explores specific situations in depth; quantitative research uses statistics to measure relationships and differences.

Question 15

A teacher is observed using both direct instruction and allowing students to explore concepts independently. This approach reflects which view of good teaching?

Accepted Answer

Good teaching is both a science and an art, requiring knowledge and inventiveness.

Question 16

Which of the following is a recommended strategy for teachers to avoid conditions that prompt academic cheating?

Accepted Answer

Focus on learning rather than grades and prepare students for assessments.

Question 17

A teacher is assigned to a classroom with students from many different cultural backgrounds. According to culturally relevant pedagogy, what should the teacher prioritize?

Accepted Answer

Providing rigorous instruction connected to students’ lives and culture.

Question 18

Which of the following is an example of a 'critical period' in development?

Accepted Answer

A time when specific abilities, such as language, must develop or they may never fully develop.

Question 19

A teacher is careful to avoid using gendered language and provides counter-stereotypical role models in class. This approach is intended to:

Accepted Answer

Avoid gender bias and promote equity in the classroom.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the process of 'scaffolding' in Vygotsky’s theory?

Accepted Answer

Providing support and guidance to students as they learn new skills, gradually reducing help as they become more competent.

Educational Psychology: Structured Study Notes for Introduction to Psychology

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards