Emotional Intelligence as a Predictor of Teaching Efficacy in BS Education Programs

Abstract

This research contributes to the literature on the predictive role of emotional intelligence (EI) for teaching efficacy (TE) among the pre-service teachers of BS Education at the University of Narowal. Based on Bandura social cognitive theory (1986) emphasizing the role of self-efficacy beliefs in the regulation of human behavior, the study seeks to investigate whether high emotional intelligence leads to high teaching efficacy. A quantitative correlational research design was adopted for the study in which data were gathered from 120 pre-service teachers through standardized self-report instruments, namely the Emotional Intelligence Scale (EIS) and the Teacher’s Sense of Efficacy Scale (TSES). Statistical analyses, that is, Pearson correlation and linear regression analyses, were performed to assess the relationship between EI and TE. The result shows that there is a significant positive relationship (r = 0.658, p < 0.01) between Emotional Intelligence and Teaching Efficacy. Results of a regression analysis revealed that EI explained 43.3 percent of the variance in teaching efficacy, providing support for the notion that emotional intelligence is a strong predictor of teachers’ sense of efficacy in their teaching abilities. These findings are consistent with other research stressing the relevance of socio-emotional competencies in teaching effectiveness and confirm the postulated model of Social Cognitive Theory, whereby self-efficacy is determined by cognitive and affective aspects. The study highlights the importance of emotional intelligence training in teacher education programs to improve the pre-service teachers’ professional competence and classroom management ability. Limitations of the study comprise its cross-sectional design and reliance on self-report measures thus longitudinal and mixed-method studies in various educational contexts are recommended. In general, the study adds to knowledge on how EI helps nurture teaching efficacy, with some valuable insights for teacher preparation programs.

Keywords: Emotional, Intelligence, Predictor, Teaching Efficacy, Education Programs