Carol S. Dweck has made a profound impact on our mindset regarding learning and teaching for the next generation. Dweck’s article discusses how children can learn from an early age. People who fear failure and do not want to give up are likely to hold a fixed mindset. However, those who are open to taking risks and willing to take a chance are more likely to have growth mindsets. This article will look at how education works and what the best path is for students, from their earliest years to adulthood. Dweck discusses both negative and positive aspects of the determination students have towards their goals and the work they do. Dweck continues to explain the differences between these mindsets. Fixed mindset students were most prevalent. Students with a fixed mindset are more likely to think negatively about their jobs. They believe they only have the ability to do what is required of them. They fear failure and are less willing to take risks. Many of us have been there. Feeling overwhelmed, we show little interest in the subjects that we are studying. I have been there. I found difficult problems in math that were so hard to solve, and I thought I’d give up. I felt dumb, lost my interest in solving other problems and thought I would fail. Fixed Mindsets are detrimental to our ability and desire to learn. It is important to encourage the next generation to develop a Growth Mindset. Students who have Growth Mindsets will be far more successful than those who have Fixed Mindsets. Dweck’s extensive research on many students at a young age explains this. Children who have their parents show more interest in learning and are willing to work harder will succeed. These children will know that hard work and taking risks will lead to higher grades. This attitude will help students see each challenge as an opportunity to succeed. This attitude is cultivated in children from an early age and will continue to be a positive influence on their lives throughout high school, college, and beyond.
It was painfully clear to me that my fixed mindset has led me to this article. Growing up, my fear of difficulties and feeling stupid when I faced a problem made me naive. My math tutor in elementary school was my father. It was difficult studying with him. He has a masters degree in calculus but his daughter, who is afraid to fail, can’t solve problems. He was an old school teacher, so it was difficult for us both. As I grew, I learned to accept that failure will always be a part of my life. Since then, I have realized that success requires a dedication to all challenges in life, including those in education. Today’s society needs growth mindsets. Carol Dweck’s Brainology is a beautiful example of how students transform from a negative mindset to a positive one. We all can see the next generation grow their Growth Mindsets and feel more motivated to work harder.
