Encourage a growth mindset

  • 4 minutes

Educators foster a “growth mindset” among their female learners by tapping into their willingness to work hard for results.

Emphasize the process and not the correct answer. Engineering and the engineering design process focus on iterations and changing the prototype after it fails. Classes should include drafting and revising in STEM applications just as it’s required in language arts and writing.

This process of not “getting the right answer” or not having it right the first time is also a place where educators and parents could be strategic in encouragement.

The NCWIT Tips offer 8 ways educators might consider giving more effective feedback using growth mindset.

Infographic showing learners need a supportive learning environment where hard work and exploration are valued over always knowing the right answer.

Link to text version of infographic

Pause and ponder

Think about one of your learners who might be frustrated with a new concept. How might you use feedback and growth mindset to encourage persistence and perseverance?