How does a teacher foster a growth mindset in students?

Fostering a growth mindset in students is primarily achieved through promoting resilience and effort. A growth mindset is founded on the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. When teachers emphasize resilience, they encourage students to persevere in the face of challenges, viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.

By focusing on effort rather than solely on innate talent or intelligence, teachers help students understand that their accomplishments are a result of their hard work and persistence. This approach instills a sense of ownership over their learning and motivates them to embrace challenges, take risks, and remain engaged in their educational journey.

In contrast, the other options, such as discouraging effort, praising only successes, or avoiding discussions on challenges, would inhibit the development of a growth mindset. Rather than encouraging a positive attitude toward learning, these methods could lead students to fear failure, feel discouraged, or develop a fixed mindset where they believe their abilities are static and unchangeable. Therefore, promoting resilience and effort is essential in cultivating a growth mindset in students.