To define growth mindset, first we should define fixed mindset. * A fixed mindset is the idea that you are only born with a set amount of intelligence. * No amount of studying will ever bring you smarter than what your maximum intelligence is. * You can’t change your intelligence. * A person’s talent and intelligence will lead to success. Success is based on intelligence, not hard work or practice.
The first student at the right has a growth mindset. The second student has a fixed mindset. Which one looks better?
What is a growth mindset? * A growth mindset is the belief that a person’s skill, abilities, and intelligence can be increased through practice, work, and motivation. * There is no limit to what a person can learn. * When a person puts forth effort and challenges themselves, they are capable of learning more.
Why is it important to have a growth mindset? Students with fixed mindsets appear to: * Fear failure * Shut down when things get hard * Are scared of taking risks * Are threatened by the success of others * Don’t think they are good enough * Ignore feedback * Give up when things are difficult
But guess what?
Students with growth mindsets: * Learn from their mistakes * Are risk takers * Think of failure as a learning opportunity * Are motivated to be successful * Rise up to challenges * Use feedback to help them learn * Are inspired by the success of others * Work to improve
How does the brain react to new knowledge? * The brain has millions and millions of neurons in it. * Every time a person learns new knowledge, a connection forms between 2 neurons. * The connection gets stronger and stronger the more the person understands the new material.
The brain is like a muscle. Every time is exercised or used, it gets stronger. Over time, it takes more for the brain to get stronger. When people challenge themselves to learn more, their brain works harder and gets stronger.