Growth Mindset
From Mindset Works, recent advances in neuroscience have shown us that the brain is far more malleable than we ever knew. This means that similar to a muscle, the brain can be built and grown! Research on brain plasticity has shown how connectivity between neurons can change with experience.
With practice, these neural networks in our brains can grow new connections and strengthen existing ones. They also build insulation that speeds transmission of impulses. These discoveries have shown us that we can increase our neural growth by the actions we take, such as using good strategies, asking questions, practicing, and following good nutrition and sleep habits. Researcher Carol Dweck and her colleagues became interested in students' attitudes about failure. They noticed that some students rebounded while other students seemed devastated by even the smallest setbacks. After studying the behavior of thousands of children, Dr. Dweck coined the terms fixed mindset and growth mindset to describe the underlying beliefs people have about learning and intelligence. When students believe they can get smarter, they understand that effort makes them stronger. Therefore they put in extra time and effort, and that leads to higher achievement. |