Hi there! Thank you for checking out my site! Education is my passion, and my goal is to use current neuroscience findings to inform educational practices and maximize learning by sharing valuable, practical resources to parents and educators!

I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Elementary Education at the University of Mississippi. Before starting my doctorate degree, I implemented the Rubik's cube in my second grade classroom with the help of Dr. Jim Payne. Throughout the year, my students became problem-solvers as they engaged and connected the cube with concepts in academics. It was incredible to witness their brains turning with curiosity, and we were able to experience first-hand what it meant to develop students who persevered in solving problems. My 2nd grade students not only exhibited grittier attitudes by the end of the year, but also experienced large gains in reading and math.

Since we experienced great success with the project, I have continued researching the idea of using the Rubik’s^© Cube as a deliberate practice to foster grit and promote a growth mindset in students. For the past two years, I have implemented the Rubik's cube in four second grade classrooms. For the Spring 2021 semester, I hope to continue working with students to identify practical, effective strategies that instills motivation, embraces mistakes, and fosters grit.

Sam E. Gilbert