Title: How to Develop a Growth Mindset and Create a Positive School Environment for Under-Resourced Students | Waterford.org
Headings: How to Develop a Growth Mindset and Create a Positive School Environment for Under-Resourced Students
Education
How to Develop a Growth Mindset and Create a Positive School Environment for Under-Resourced Students
Challenges Educators Face While Teaching Under-Resourced Students
What is a Fixed Mindset vs Growth Mindset?
Benefits of a Fixed vs Growth Mindset in Education
Growth Mindset Activities and Tips for Teachers

Content: 12]
A few classroom examples of growth mindsets include: A kindergartener has trouble reading so she practices it every day after school because she “knows she can do it”
A sixth grader loves his science teacher’s astronomy unit because he learns something new every day
A fourth grader tells her teacher that even though learning long division is hard, she thinks it’s fun because she “loves a good challenge”
Dr. Dweck’s theory of growth mindsets in education aligns with brain plasticity, which is the concept that our thoughts and actions can improve our brain functioning . [ 13] Every time a student made a mistake in mathematics, for example, researchers discovered that a new synapse (which helps our minds transmit information) was made in their brain. [ 14] By encouraging students to learn from their mistakes and seek out challenging experiences, teachers can help their students get the most out of educational experiences. Benefits of a Fixed vs Growth Mindset in Education
On the most basic level, a growth mindset in the classroom can improve a student’s grades and standardized test scores. One study found that students who met for 90 minutes each week with a mentor trained in growth mindset practices saw a 4.5-point gain in mathematics and a 4-point gain in reading test scores. [ 15] If a student believes that they have a high potential for educational attainment, they’re more likely to practice often and find ways to turn their weaknesses into strengths. A growth mindset for students can also lead to the following benefits: Encourages intrinsic motivation to learn [16]
Strengthens happiness and life satisfaction [17]
Reduces anxiety and chronic stress [18]
Can help close the achievement gap [19]
Encouraging growth mindsets is essential for creating a classroom environment conducive to learning for all children but particularly under-resourced students. Educational researchers have found that understanding fixed and growth mindsets can not only stop plummeting grades in struggling students but also put them on the pathway to academic growth. [