Growth Mindset in Practice
What does Growth Mindset look like in action?
More than simple changes to language, fostering a Growth Mindset in students requires helping them put ideas into action. In these clips, discover how teachers helped students focus on the “learning zone”, set goals, and use strategies to improve.
Matt DeLuca on “Setting the Stage”
As both a theatre director and a teacher, setting the stage is an integral part of my practice. When contemplating the implementation of Growth Mindset in my classroom, I wanted my students to receive the message even before they walked in the door.
I posted a sign stating, “You are entering the Learning Zone” on the outside of my door and “You are in the Learning Zone” on the inside as a constant reminder. The Learning Zone reflects the very essence of what school is all about. If students are afraid to take risks and allow themselves to shut down when faced with a challenge learning will never take place. Therefore, my goal is to create a warm, safe environment for rigorous practice to take place.
That, to me, is what the Learning Zone is all about.
Entering the Learning Zone
For students to have room to grow, they need to understand when they can and should make mistakes. In this clip, teachers discuss how to clearly define the difference between Performance Zone and Learning Zone.
Deliberate Practice
In the following clip, Eduardo Briceño explains the importance of Deliberate Practice.
Tracking Effort
We want to focus on the process rather than the result. But how do you measure effort? In this clip, teachers discuss ways to track effort and show students that their work is leading to growth.
“What are you going to do about it?”
When students understand what they don’t know, the next question becomes clear. In this clip, students and teachers discuss the impact of monitoring their progress and being honest about their obstacles.