A framework for using learning theories to inform ‘growth mindset’ activities

ABSTRACTThe social psychology theory of fixed and growth mindsets offers one reason for observed underachievement in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), particularly for students who have previously excelled in these disciplines. Fixed mindset beliefs are linked to behaviours that can lead to avoiding challenges and reduced learning, such as concealing a lack of understanding to retain an image of being ‘smart’. The potential impact of a growth mindset on STEM achievement, particularly for minority and low-household-income students, resulted in calls to develop interventions that encourage growth mindsets and discourage fixed mindsets. However, education interventions are influenced by the educator's understanding of how learning occurs. A framework to show how activities based on different learning theories may encourage growth mindsets or (unintentionally) encourage fixed mindsets can guide the developers of growth mindset interventions. We present such a framework in six tables rel...