Texas ColorBands reinforces the importance of a “growth mindset” in helping students across all grade levels reach and exceed their learning goals.
The growth mindset, along with its counterpart the fixed mindset, are concepts at heart of the paradigm-shifting book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, a world-renowned psychologist at Stanford University who is championed by educators, athletes, and business gurus alike. Samuel Johnson once said, “Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance.” This very idea, that we can be great at something if we persist, is the foundation of the growth mindset.
What is a “Growth Mindset”?
Growth mindset is a principle focused on continually pushing oneself toward his/her greatest potential. This principle emphasizes the belief that abilities are not predestined, rather something that can continuously be worked on in order to achieve success. By continually reinforcing the belief that students can and will achieve their goals if they put forth the required effort, we find that they become more capable and motivated. A growth mindset is one that faces challenges with confidence and doesn’t succumb to the notion that any task is beyond our reach.
How does a growth mindset affect students?
A growth mindset is the opposite of a fixed mindset, which supports the belief that our basic qualities are fixed traits that aren’t meant to be improved upon. In a classroom environment, a fixed mindset can easily hinder performance and student growth.
There are many factors that contribute to a growth mindset in relation to classroom success. Positive language and reinforcements, for instance, are powerful when dealing with struggling students. Research has found, unsurprisingly, that teacher practice has a significant effect on student mindset.
Teacher feedback has the power to encourage students to embrace educational challenges, or to enable students to remain complacent — resigned to the fact that they simply aren’t capable of performing certain tasks, understanding certain subjects, or earning certain grades. Cultivating a growth mindset means praising hard work and effort rather than simply praising students for being “smart”. By continually reinforcing the idea that students can work hard toward improving their capabilities, they become empowered and confident in their will to achieve their biggest goals.
Texas ColorBands’ unique system relies heavily on the growth mindset to propel teachers and students toward success. Our unique progress monitoring system is designed to promote this mindset among children of all ages, ensuring they have the tools and encouragement they need to reach each and every one of their learning goals.
If you are ready to explore a new method of empowering student growth, contact Texas ColorBands to schedule a consultation.
