ADVANTAGES OF A GROWTH MINDSET
There is a lot of peer-reviewed research on the pros of encouraging a growth mindset in pupils. These include:
- They will seek out better feedback and persist for longer
- They cope better with transitions and develop better self-regulation
- It reduces stress and aggression in pupils as well as increasing well-being and emotional functioning
- It improves self-esteem and reduces helplessness
Growth mindset coaching has been shown to be most beneficial for disengaged pupils.
HOW TO DEVELOP A GROWTH MINDSET
There is no set way to develop a growth mindset in children. Good starting points include:
Types of Praise – praising the process, their effort and individual development over the result. Encouraging children to ask for and act on feedback. Encouraging a sense of curiosity.
Level of Expectation – having high, challenging but realistic expectations of pupils' performance and communicating this to them.
Positive Group Norms – creating a growth culture that values learning, education and development.
Helpful Self-Talk – Teaching children to manage how they talk to themselves and to do so in a positive and helpful way.