Key Word in Success: Self-efficacy

A great deal of scientific research conducted around the world for more than 40 years has shown that the concept of self-efficacy is one of the most powerful factors influencing students’ academic performance. in turkey, research related to self-efficacy has been increased in recent years but the studies conducted on this concept have primarily involved higher education level. the literature regarding self-efficacy as well as research, guidance and suggestions for improving students’ self- efficacy in learning environments are rather limited. the purpose of the current study was to construct a scientific background related to the concept of self-efficacy and to provide suggestions for improving students’ self-efficacy in learning environments. literature review method was used for this investigation. the sections cover the development and the importance of self-efficacy concept, the factors associated with self-efficacy, the sources of self-efficacy and the theoretical and the empirical research on academic self-efficacy in learning environments. further, based on the related research, suggestions were provided for improving students’ academic self-efficacy beliefs in educational environments.