The Effect of the
Growth Mindset

What is the effect of learning growth mindset concepts on students' self-concept and confidence as it relates to academic performance shown through enthusiasm and effort?

Change "I can't" to...

"I can't yet."

Change "I'm not good at this" to...

"I'm struggling. This may take me more work than others, and that's okay."

Change "I'm not smart" to...

"I will reach my goals with effort."

Literature

• “Students who believe that intelligence or … ability is simply a fixed trait (a fixed mindset) are at a significant disadvantage compared to students who believe that their abilities can be developed (a growth mindset)." (Dweck, 2008)

Literature

• Chinese cultural beliefs about perfection are adaptive as a result of a focus on effort. (Fong & Yuen, 2014)

Literature

• "...Effort rather than background is the greatest determinant of success." (Tomlinson & Javius, 2012)

Design

• action research
• static group
• independent variable: growth mindset instruction intervention
• dependent variables: academic performance, self-concept
• attribute variable: gender

Intervention

Brainology Curriculum

• created with Dr. Carol Dweck
• teaches growth mindset concepts
• blended learning
• five units
• eight weeks
• thirteen hour

Sample

• fourteen fifth graders
• eight girls, six boys
• aged nine to eleven
• convenience sample
• one classroom at Asia Pacific International School

Instrumentation

• first unit pre- and post-assessment
• Likert scale "My Learning"
• Brainology curriculum: http://mindsetworks.com
• second unit pre- and post-assessment

Validity Threats

• implementation
• statistical regression
• content
• history
• maturation

Self-Concept Mean
Significant

Learning Mean
Significant

Discussion

• student thinking and speaking more positive
• self-concept: +10.9%
• learning: +12.5%
• student beliefs are shifting

Action

• growth mindsets concepts taught each year start
• students response positive
• further growth mindset study
• share and collaborate with colleagues through a growth mindset

References

• Dweck, C. S. (2008). Mindsets and Math/Science Achievement. The Opportunity Equation. Retrieved February 14, 2015, from http://www.growthmindsetmaths.com/uploads/2/3/7/7/23776169/mindset_and_math...

References

• Fong, R. W., & Yuen, M. (2014). Perfectionism and Chinese Gifted Learners. Roeper Review, 36, 1-11. Retrieved February 14, 2015.
• Tomlinson, C. A., & Javius, E. L. (2012). Teach Up for Excellence. Educational Leadership, 28-33. Retrieved February 14, 2015.