I will use a growth mindset to help create significant learning environments. In order to create significant learning environments, it takes doing things differently than what has always been done. When trying new techniques and innovations in the classroom, outcomes may be unpredictable because it is new. With a growth mindset, I will be able to fail forward if some projects don’t turn out as planned. Since I have a growth mindset, I won’t focus on the errors, I will focus on how to make the project better the next time and try different ways to improve better outcomes.

 

  In the new culture of learning, the point is to embrace what we don’t know, come up with better questions about it, and continue asking questions in order to learn more and more, both incrementally, and exponentially (Brown & Thomas, 2011). Through projects that have a driving question and a problem to solve, students can see learning through a different lens than regurgitating information. Learners can become comfortable with not knowing, asking questions and then asking more questions on the quest to learn and solve authentic problems. It is through this process that students gain more agency and begin to have fun learning.

 

  It will be important for my students to have a growth mindset as well. The significant learning environment should be a place where they feel comfortable failing forward and asking questions. 

 

  This past week in my classroom we learned a lot through gaming. We used Blooket and Gimkit to practice math standards to prepare us for the standardized test we will take next week. Students were engaged, laughing, and having fun. They especially enjoyed a game called Crypto Hack. From an outsider’s perspective it probably looked like we were just playing. We were learning and playing, the best combination for happiness. I’m so thankful for the creators and educators that contribute to these learning games. 

 

   Learning looks different than it used to because of digital tools and new ideas of how we learn best. It should look different because if it didn’t we wouldn’t be growing. Being a life-long learner myself, I am constantly looking for ways to expand my knowledge and understanding of best practices for creating significant learning environments where students can thrive. Practicing a growth mindset helps to create learner centered environments. With a growth mindset, I am more interested in learning than teaching. It is through this learning that I will be able to create the best environments for my students. 

 

   I think we begin to help our learners to develop a growth mindset by consistently showing them their growth and progress. It is important for learners not to get into the comparison game. I believe that it is easier to learn and progress when focused on one’s own growth. It can be difficult for students when they see their peers learn things faster and they often think that others are intrinsically smart. I always tell students that no one is born smart. Everyone has to learn.When students focus on working on their own learning goals, they can focus on their own achievements. 

 

  Changing our beliefs is empowering and can have a powerful impact on learning. The growth mindset can foster a passion for learning where one is comfortable with the grit it will take when facing difficulties. When students start to understand that qualities can be cultivated, they begin to see themselves in a different light. 

 

  In order to ignite positive self-talk for students, it is important to begin positively talking to them. If you believe in them, then it is easier for them to believe in themselves. Self-confidence cultivated through a growth mindset can help students become life-long learners. The world is changing constantly and being able to learn is a valued skill. With the right mindset constant learning will be challenging, manageable, and rewarding. 

​

To learn more about growth mindset, please check out my growth mindset plan.