Growth MIndset in the Alternative Classroom

Teaching Growth Mindset in the Alternative Schools

 

We … need to remember that effort is a means to an end to the goal of learning and improving. Too often nowadays, praise is given to students who are putting forth effort, but not learning, in order to make them feel good in the moment: “Great effort! You tried your best!” It’s good that the students tried, but it’s not good that they’re not learning. The growth-mindset approach helps children feel good in the short and long terms, by helping them thrive on challenges and setbacks on their way to learning. When they’re stuck, teachers can appreciate their work so far, but add: “Let’s talk about what you’ve tried, and what you can try next.”

 

Around 2006 Dr. Carol Dweck from Stanford University discovered something.  It was magical and profound.  She and her colleagues began realizing that the brain is malleable and ever-changing - that it isn’t always in a static state, and that it can grow - and be taught to grow.  

 

This was wonderful news.  But there are those who guffaw at such research - they point out the flaws, rather than the actual findings.  This means that we must fail and celebrate those fails - because we learn with each one and we grow with the renewed opportunity that these failed, these experiences provide.  

 

So, how do we parlay that into the classroom?  How can we build this system into our students?  How can we take these students who have built walls around themselves both in the Alternative and Mainstream buildings, and plant those seeds that will germinate and award them with successes in their futures?  

 

What is Growth MIndset? 8 steps to develop one

 

What is Growth Mindset

 

Growth MIndset for Kids

 

Growth Mindset - Hammersmith Academy

 

Growth Minset - INfinity

 

What having a "Growth MIndset" Actually Means

 

How to Teach Growth Mindset to Kids

 

EdWeek:  Carol Dweck Revisits the Growth Mindset

 

EdWeek: Carol Dweck on Nurturing Students Growth Mindsets Through Protest and Pandemic