Research

11 September 2010 Research Activity “Even Geniuses Work Hard” is an article written by Carol Dweck. In this article she tells the difference between what she calls a fixed mindset and a growth mindset. She goes on to explain why a growth mindset should be fostered over a fixed mindset. Dweck describes an individual with a fixed mindset as somebody who believes that “their intelligence is simply an inborn trait – they have a certain amount, and that’s that” (Dweck). Whereas, somebody with a growth mindset “believes that they can develop their intelligence over time” (Dweck). She believes that a student with a growth mindset is more likely to become genius. The author states: “Students with a fixed mindset do not like effort. They believe that if you have ability, everything should come naturally. They tell us that when they have to work hard, they feel dumb”(Dweck). A student with a fixed mindset will often give up when presented with a challenge. They think that if you do not know how to do something, there is no way to go about learning it. Therefore, teachers and parents should cultivate a growth mindset in children. This way, they can reach their full potential. When presented with a difficult task, students with growth mindset are excited to succeed and know that they will have to work hard to get there. “Students with a growth mindset, in contrast, value effort; they realize that even geniuses have to work hard to develop their abilities and make their contributions” (Dweck). The growth mindset leads to a more creative, intelligent child; therefore, it is the responsibility of teachers and parents to ensure that children are learning in this way so that they can become successful.