Confidence in Code
Analyzing the Relationship Between Self-Efficacy and Meeting Contributions in Student Software Development Teams
S. Markov (TU Delft - Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science)
E.A. Aivaloglou – Mentor (TU Delft - Web Information Systems)
M.A. Steenbergen – Mentor (TU Delft - Web Information Systems)
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Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between self-efficacy and participation in software development team meetings among computer science students. Drawing on Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy, the study explores whether students who rate themselves higher in confidence also contribute more frequently and in different ways during group meetings. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from three project teams in a second-year Software Project course at TU Delft. A domain-specific self-efficacy survey was filled in by all participants, and their meeting contributions were thematically coded into categories such as planning, technical input, and social interactions. Quantitative analysis revealed a positive correlation between self-efficacy and overall contribution frequency, particularly in technical and planning discussions. Qualitative observations showed that group dynamics—such as dominant speakers and team culture—can moderate this relationship, sometimes overshadowing confident team members