What should an instructor do to address overconfidence in fast learners?

Raising the standard of performance for each lesson is an effective way to address overconfidence in fast learners because it encourages them to continually challenge themselves and develop their skills further. By establishing higher standards, instructors can ensure that students are not only comfortable with the current material but are also pushed to attain a deeper understanding and mastery of the subject matter.

This approach helps to foster a growth mindset, encouraging fast learners to appreciate the value of effort and persistence rather than relying solely on their natural abilities. By embracing more challenging tasks, students can gain a clearer perspective on their competencies and limitations, which can temper overconfidence and lead to more sustained learning outcomes.

In contrast, ignoring overconfidence could allow it to persist unchecked, while rewarding it with extra privileges may reinforce a false sense of superiority. Limiting participation in group activities could isolate fast learners and hinder collaborative learning opportunities, which are essential for all students’ development.