Teach. Tech. Math.
Growth Mindset Plan
Why Growth Mindset?
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Research indicates that when students cultivate a "growth mindset," they believe intelligence and "smartness" can be developed through effort and experience, leading to a more resilient approach to learning. In contrast, a "fixed mindset" entails believing intelligence is innate and unchangeable. Individuals with a growth mindset tend to engage more effectively in learning tasks, embrace challenges, and exhibit greater resilience in the face of failure, as opposed to those with a fixed mindset, who may succumb to feelings of incapability when encountering difficulties. In mathematics, a fixed mindset can constrain a student's potential for high achievement. Therefore, fostering a culture that values growth, embraces failure as a learning opportunity, and encourages the acceptance of mistakes is crucial among both educators and students (Boaler, 2022).
The journey from a Fixed to Growth Mindset
Transforming mindsets from fixed to growth requires dedication and effort. Change is challenging and requires a journey that may or may not lead a person down the growth path; this can be reflected below through a 4 step process (Dweck, 2008).
Growth Mindset Resources
Videos
Books
Articles
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Timeline
Developing a growth mindset takes time to happen. Diligence and effort are crucial to fostering one in the classroom. Educators must participate in training to help their students develop a mindset that pulls them up for maximum growth. Creating classroom time to hold open discussions with students about their fixed attitudes can foster a safe, comfortable environment that allows students to make mistakes. It may take longer for some to engage in growth mindset conversions than others, but this should not create a fixed mindset that they will “never” engage (Dweck, 2008). This flexible journey will require continual improvement and work to maintain.
Personal Journey
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Throughout the Applied Digital Learning (ADL) program and the remainder of the 5302 course, a growth mindset will be essential for me as a learner and for continuing to develop my innovation plan. Through my research, I have discovered aspects of a growth mindset that will stick with me as I continue my life as a teacher. More than ever, I want to promote a growth mindset for my students and fellow educators. I aim to approach setbacks with a “not yet” perspective, and every mistake is a chance to continue growing and learning for the future.
References:
​Boaler, J. (2022). Mathematical Mindsets: Unleashing Students’ Potential through Creative Mathematics, Inspiring Messages and Innovative Teaching (2nd Edition). Jossey-Bass.
Dweck, C. S. (2008). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Ballantine Books.
Dweck, C. (2014, November). The power of believing that you can improve. Ted.com; TED Talks. https://www.ted.com/talks/carol_dweck_the_power_of_believing_that_you_can_improve?language=en
Jeffrey, S. (2024, January 2). How to Change Your Mindset from Fixed to Growth: A Definitive Guide (4 steps). CEOsage. https://scottjeffrey.com/how-to-change-your-mindset