How efforts can overcome natural ability
The growth mindset is an increasingly popular topic in educational circles and is revolutionizing the way that many schools, colleges and universities approach learning and development. Let’s explore the fundamental aspects of the growth mindset theories, and what does this new approach mean for education today?
What is growth mindset?
The Growth Mindset is a ground-breaking concept which has been developed by Stanford University psychologist Carol Dweck. Her findings are based on many years of research on achievement and success which looks at fixed mindsets versus growth mindsets. In particular, her work examines the impact that these different mindsets can have on learning and development.
People who have a fixed mindset believe that their basic abilities and talents are immovable traits. They believe that their natural, innate ability can override the need for continuous improvement and usually dread failure as it reflects badly on their core image of themselves. In a growth mindset, people believe that through effort, continuous learning and hard work they can develop their talents and abilities to effectively overcome natural ability. The growth mindset approach creates a powerful love of learning and a positive mental attitude that embraces failure as a critical way to improve their abilities.
As an example, a pupil faced with a maths problem who has a fixed mindset will be afraid of getting the answer wrong and will prefer to stay in their comfort zone. The pupil who approaches the same maths problem with a growth mindset will see this as an opportunity to learn and will be resilient about overcoming the challenge in front of them.
Dweck’s research shows that by adopting the growth mindset theory, effort and sheer hard work can overcome natural ability and pave the way for success in education, business or sport.
The value of growth mindset in teaching and learning
The theory of growth mindset is as applicable to teachers and staff as it is to pupils. Just as pupils need to work towards an open, positive and resilient approach to learning, teachers have the opportunity to embrace a culture of positivity and praise within their classrooms.
The benefits of growth mindset in teaching and learning are significant. Pupils are likely to feel more empowered to show that effort can overcome natural ability and will be excited to learn and embrace new opportunities. This will impact on their levels of attainment, their attendance and their levels of motivation. Teachers who embrace a growth mindset can collaborate with colleagues rather than focusing solely on their own pupils’ results, and will feel motivated by the efforts and achievements made by their pupils’ mindset is as applicable to teachers and staff as it is to pupils.