In the context of educational outcomes, the phenomenon where a teacher's expectations about a student's abilities ultimately influence the student's performance is known as a __________.

The phenomenon is called the Pygmalion effect, which is a type of self‑fulfilling prophecy. It means that if a teacher thinks a student will do well, the student often ends up performing better. Teachers may give more attention, encouragement, or resources to those they expect to succeed, which helps those students succeed. For example, a teacher who believes a shy student can improve in math may provide extra help, and the student’s confidence and grades rise. Thus, the teacher’s belief directly shapes the student’s achievement.