Eileen Hernon
Growth Mindset
"Growth mindset" is a phrase coined by Carol Dweck and refers to the attitude people hold about themselves. People who possess growth mindsets believe that with hard work, they can achieve anything. The research is compelling: where there's a will, there really is a way. People with growth mindsets are significantly more successful than those with fixed mindsets.
Over the past few years, I have focused on developing a growth mindset. I believe I can accomplish anything I devote effort to. I value the learning process over the resulting product. I welcome challenges as opportunities to advance my learning. My goal as a teacher is to cultivate growth mindsets in each of my students. I want them to believe that with concerted effort, anything is possible.
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This book provides an in-depth explanation of growth and fixed mindsets and includes actionable steps for developing a growth mindset.
The easiest way to combat fixed mindsets is to adjust teacher language. In her book "The Power of Our Words," Paula Denton explains just how much teachers' words impact students. She also armed me with specific phrases to use that would help my students develop growth mindsets.
I believe anchor charts like this one give students a strong reference point that will help them change their mindsets. It takes an abstract concept like mindset and translates it into small, concrete adjustments that are easy for children to make on their own. *Poster created by Jessica Tabor
This book provides an in-depth explanation of growth and fixed mindsets and includes actionable steps for developing a growth mindset.
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