Growth Mindset

Underpinned by a belief in equality, the growth mindset empowers

students to have a hunger for learning rather than an appetite for

approval.

Why

Uncovering the true potential of a student is education's true goal. The innate talents

of each student are subject to confidence, teaching styles and wonder, and can affect

a student's outcomes to a higher degree than resourcing or other school matters. By

creating a belief in each student that intelligence is something that can be developed, we inspire students to become life long learners, who take pride in their knowledge.

What

Growth mindset is the belief that intelligence is not fixed and can be improved through effort and deliberate practice, emphasising the importance of education. Research on brain plasticity has shown that our brain can change and grow over time. Those with growth mindsets see mistakes as an opportunity to learn and seek out more difficult challenges as opportunity to grow. Holders of fixed mindsets, on the other hand, are more interested in praise, so will seek out tasks within their comfort zone.

How

Praise for effort, not ability. Repeated studies have shown that when you reward a child for their effort, they will seek out more challenging work in the future so they can pursue even greater effort.

Nudges. Teaching an attitude requires having an attitude. Encouraging students to hold a growth mindset starts with positive comments on students' efforts, and emphasising at all times that improvement will come through their effort. Conversations, and responses to "I'm no good at this" (answer = "yet") are the foundation of growth mindset teaching, creating a classroom culture that values growth.

A diversity of teaching strategies. This equips students with a range of strategies to grow their skills and handle challenges.

Highlight progress rather than emphasise mistakes.

Links:

https://www.mindsetworks.com/science/Changing-Mindsets

https://www.jamesanderson.com.au/the-growth-mindset-classroom