Meaningful schoolwork and homework promotes the learning of academic content. When work is meaningful, all students rise to the challenges needed for learning. A mindset that is growth oriented will lead to short and long term achievement.

A mindset movement developed to help close the achievement gap. The idea grew out of Stanford University’s psychologist Carol Dweck after years of research. Research indicates that there are two types of mindsets – a growth mindset and a fixed mindset.  

It states that when an individual has a fixed mindset, the belief is an inborn trait that there is only a certain amount of intelligence. Effort is a means to an end to the goal of learning and improving. Praise for effort is given when a ‘feel good’ message is needed. Fixed mindsets believe that talent alone creates success. People with fixed mindsets are constantly trying to prove how smart they are.  

An individual that has a growth mindset believes that intelligence is developed over time. Their basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work.  Persons with a growth mindset thrive on challenges. They seek opportunities for growth and they don’t see themselves failing, they see it as learning.  They do not seek approval.

As parents and educators a reason needs to be found as to why a student can’t learn and not focused on finding a way to help them learn. Once the why is determined, the way will be clear.  Discussions at home and at school should focus on what students try and what is needed to move the learning forward. Students need to be encouraged to thrive on a challenge or a setback.  As Thomas Edison referred to inventing the light bulb, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work. “

A person’s mindset has a direct influence on their success in and out of school.  A growth mindset raises their grades and learning ability. Students need reminded that intelligence is fluid. They need to believe that through effort and support of parents and other students they can develop their abilities. Struggles and difficulties in learning are expected and aid in the process of the learning.