Mindset: Lesson 1

This session will talk a lot about having a "growth mindset" vs. a "fixed mindset". Here's the definition of those from Carol Dweck, a psychology professor at Stanford University and the author of the book Mindset (a great book for you to read if you're interested, both parents and students):

In a fixed mindset, people believe their basic qualities, like their intelligence or talent, are simply fixed traits. They spend their time documenting their intelligence or talent instead of developing them. They also believe that talent alone creates success—without effort. They’re wrong.

In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment. Virtually all great people have had these qualities.

So I'd like you to take some time and watch these videos from Jo Boaler, a professor of Math Education at Stanford University. Please note that these videos were created for a course for teachers and parents, so she will sometimes refer to "in the references" or give an "assignment" at the end of the video (which you are welcome to do, but you don't have to :-). Also please note she is from Great Britain which, like a large part of the world, refers to math as "maths" - don't let that throw you.

Video 1 (2:42): Have you heard negative messages about Math?

Video 2 (5:56): Brain Research: The potential of the brain to grow is huge (for everyone).

Video 3 (3:52): What students think about learning affects how they learn.

Some brief articles to read:

• Fixed vs. Growth Mindset Infographic (1 page, pdf)
• You Can Grow Your Intelligence (4 pages, pdf)
• Effective Effort Rubric (1 page, pdf)