Growth Mindset
Overview and Resources that support Growth Mindset
What is growth mindset and why is it a focus in our schools?
Mindset is a simple idea discovered by world-renowned Stanford University psychologist Carol Dweck in decades of research on achievement and success. Dr. Dweck identified two mindsets people can have: a fixed mindset and a growth mindset. In a fixed mindset, people believe their basic qualities, like intelligence or talent, are fixed traits. They spend their time documenting their intelligence or talent instead of developing them, and believe that talent alone creates success, which is wrong. In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment. Virtually all people who achieved top performance had these qualities. Research shows that people with this view reach higher levels of success than people with fixed mindset beliefs. Teaching a growth mindset creates motivation and productivity in the worlds of business, education, and sports. It enhances relationships, and increases achievement. (source: www.mindsetworks.com)
A true and honest growth mindset is the foundation of every learning environment. It is essential for educators and students to understand the brain science related to growth mindset and to intentionally create a culture that supports the achievement of all students.
Neuroplasticity- the science behind growth mindset (2:03min)
https://youtu.be/ELpfYCZa87g
Visuals that help define Growth Mindset
What is the difference between a Fixed Mindset and a Growth Mindset?
Fixed Mindset:
- I like my work to be easy.
- I don’t like to try a challenge.
- I want people to praise me for how clever I am.
- I believe I cannot change how clever I am.
- I don’t like to try new things because I won’t be very good at it.
- I give up easily.
Growth Mindset:
- I never give up.
- I like my work to be difficult – it means I am learning.
- I love challenges.
- I want people to praise me for the effort I put into my work.
- I believe I can get more intelligent by working hard.
- I feel clever when I’m learning something new.
- I learn from my mistakes.
How can educators and parents learn more?
Educators- here is a "free" self-paced online course!
Teachers who have opportunities for sustained, ongoing professional development that is linked to classroom practices are more likely to see meaningful changes in their practices.
Parents- here is a "free" self-paced online course!
Developed in collaboration with Raise The Bar. Parents learn what a growth mindset is, why it’s important, and best practices to support their children in developing this learning belief.
Click on the slide deck below to view and share a variety of Growth Mindset Resources!
Brenda Maurao, Assistant Director for Elementary Education
I am committed to creating an inclusive school community that supports students, empowers teachers, and engages families. Please read my Leadership Pledge https://sites.google.com/a/themauraos.com/leaders-and-learners/home/leadershippledge2017-2018.
Email: bmaurao@framingham.k12.ma.us
Website: http://bmauraolearningandleading.blogspot.com/2018/09/we-all-have-story.html
Location: 73 Mt Wayte Ave, Suite 5 Framingham, MA, USA
Phone: 508-626-9132
Twitter: @bmaurao