Honing the Growth Mindset

In a recent meta-analysis study of 365,915 people, it was found that improving student success through fostering a growth mindset produces weak results (Burgoyne & Parker, 2018). I believe these results were due to certain factors not being added to the development of the growth mindset.  A growth mindset is the belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed through hard work, dedication, and perseverance. To foster this mindset, I have implemented various strategies in my classroom because just fostering the mindset alone is not enough to get to a true level of success. Throughout this last semester, I have worked to fulfill and enhance my Growth Mindset plan by using these strategies. This plan went hand in hand with my innovation project, as Project Based Learning inspires students to develop a growth mindset. This is due to the Project-Based Learning model creating a significant learning environment. 

 

Besides increasing the rigor of my teaching I have also integrated project-based learning into my approach. This method involves students engaging in real-world projects that require them to apply their knowledge in a meaningful way. Not only does this approach enhance their understanding of the subject matter, but it also fosters important skills, like collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. Through project-based learning, students come to appreciate the value of their efforts and grasp that learning is not only about finding the answer but also about the process of discovery and problem-solving.

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I find that using growth mindset language effectively instills a growth mindset in students. By incorporating words and phrases like "yet " "effort," "persistence," and "growth" into our conversations I constantly remind students that their abilities are not fixed and can be developed with time. Instead of solely focusing on grades or test scores I make an effort to acknowledge and praise students, for their dedication and progress. This helps them understand that the journey of learning holds more importance than achieving end results. However, using the growth mindset lingo is not the only aspect of developing a growth mindset in students. You have to include many other factors to reach the results of a true growth mindset. 

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To further reinforce the concept of a growth mindset I educate my students about neuroplasticity by explaining to my students that when they make mistakes or face challenges it's a sign that their brains are growing and forming connections. This understanding helps them see failure as an opportunity, for growth rather than a reflection of their intelligence or worth. Over time I've noticed my students embracing this belief and even encouraging their peers with statements like "You're growing your brain!"

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To further foster a growth mindset I incorporate “thinking tasks" into our routine. These tasks are deliberately designed to be challenging. It encourages students to think beyond the conventional solutions. By engaging in these types of tasks my students have become more comfortable with uncertainty. They have developed a willingness to take intellectual risks. They eagerly look forward to these activities. I've already observed improvements in their critical thinking and creative abilities.

By combining these strategies I've created an enriching learning environment for my students that has resulted in success. By promoting a growth mindset and implementing the aforementioned techniques I've witnessed a decrease in instances of dishonesty, among my students. Previously many of them resorted to cheating out of fear of receiving failing grades.

However, by emphasizing the journey of learning and the significance of putting in effort and persevering students have come to realize that grades should not be seen as the measure of success. They have gained confidence, in their abilities and are now eager to take on new challenges. Furthermore, by encouraging collaboration and teamwork, as long as all students are actively contributing, it helps to eliminate any temptation for cheating.

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Despite the findings from the meta-analysis mentioned above (Burgoyne & Parker 2018), I firmly believe that nurturing a growth mindset in students is essential for their long-term success and personal growth. My ultimate goal is for my students to become lifelong learners. Through increasing rigor,  instilling a growth mindset, collaboration with peers, and real-world learning I can stay true to my learning philosophy. I have witnessed positive transformations in my student's attitudes, behaviors, and perspectives towards learning. They have become self-assured individuals who exhibit resilience and motivation while embracing challenges and viewing setbacks as opportunities, for development. I am eagerly looking forward to witnessing the progress they will achieve by the end of this year!
 

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