S.M.A.R.T Goals and Grit
Smart goals are objective tasks that teachers and students can use to help create focused and beneficial goals. S.M.A.R.T Goals connect to the forethought phase of SRL, using goal planing to induce self-motivation. The steps of a SMART GOAL are as seen below:
First is SPECIFIC, asking what specifically is the goal that is trying to be achieved. Next is MEASURABLE, asking how the goal will be measured, or when someone can know they've accomplished the goal. Next is ATTAINABLE, asking if the goal can realistically be accomplished. RELEVANCE is the next objective, asking if the goal connects to an overall mission. Finally, there is TIMELY, asking if the goal has a deadline or timeline of progress.
An example of a SMART goal can be a student in a math class. If this student got a B on his last math test, but wants to do better, he can make a SMART goal for his next test. If he decided his goal was to get an A on his next math test, he would then map it out using the SMART goal objective, as seen below.
Specific- I want to get an A on my next math test.
Measurable- I will know I've completed my goal when I get my math test back and I got an A.
Attainable- I think this goal is attainable, because if I work hard enough I will be able to get a higher grade on my next test than my last test.
Relevant- This goal is relevant because if I get an A on my math test, it will help me have a better overall math grade.
Timely- My next math test is in 2 weeks, so I will study three times a week to prepare.
Grit
Grit is a trait shown when people have a strong passion for something, and they overcome any obstacles in their way and use strong dedication to complete a mission involved with their passion (Tough 2011). Grit can be shown in school as well, using grit and dedication to get through school, and keep trying even if it's hard. Grit also is an important predictor in one's success, including educational success (Pugh 12).
A theory that goes along with grit is the scaffolding and buttressing theory. In teaching, it is important that instructors give guidance, but also allows for students to have their own educational independence. The scaffolding and buttressing metaphor refers to archetecture, where buildings can either be built with buttressing or scaffolding. Scaffolding means there is a form of structure around the building, but it then gets removed and the building stands on its own, while buttressing is foundation that the building needs to rely on in order to stay upright.
This applies to learners as well. It is important for educators to be a helpful tool for students, but need to be able to lessen their control/guidance and still have the ability to stand alone. This connects to grit, because if a teacher steps away, students can use grit to continue to stand on their own, rather than collapsing if the teacher fails to give students the right amount of guidance.
