Empathy in university teaching: student perceptions and teacher self-assessments

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5377/rtu.v14i41.22024

Keywords:

Teacher empathy, emotional intelligence, student perception, teacher self-assessment, classroom climate

Abstract

Teacher empathy is essential for creating positive learning environments and enhancing student motivation. This study examines the discrepancy between teachers’ self-assessments of empathy and students’ perceptions in the Hispanic Language and Literature program at UNAN-Managua. A descriptive, cross-sectional quantitative design was applied using the adapted Teacher Empathy Scale (TES). The study involved 18 students and 5 teachers. Results reveal significant differences between teachers’ self-perception and students’ evaluations. The observed discrepancy aligns with previous studies suggesting that self-assessment is not a reliable measure of teacher empathy. Therefore, it is concluded that student evaluation should be considered as a complementary measure to improve teacher empathy and the classroom climate.

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References

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Published

2026-02-06

How to Cite

Zamora Úbeda, Z. C., & Álvarez Ruíz, R. O. (2026). Empathy in university teaching: student perceptions and teacher self-assessments. Torreon Universitario Magazine, 14(41), 42–56. https://doi.org/10.5377/rtu.v14i41.22024

Issue

Section

Education