There is power in the tongue!

Since I started the ADL program this spring, I have discovered the power of the word yet. Often both my students and I say how we “can’t” do something. Although the truth is, we have not mastered it YET. Having a growth mindset is critical to reaching goals and gaining new knowledge, but we must first reflect on the changes we can implement to engross ourselves in this mindset. Sometimes we may fall back into a fixed mindset, but we must actively and intentionally choose how we respond to challenges.

Carol Dweck mentioned that praising students when they are in the process instead of when they have presented the final product is imperative because it promotes resilience. I believe this is important because this gives students the courage to take constructive criticism throughout their journey because they are not only internalizing the negative effects after they have received a grade. I have also observed my students wanting to complete their work before anyone, or wanting to get the most questions correct, almost as if they are in a competition. Instead, I want my students to crave learning from their peers and sharing their knowledge as well. Acquiring a growth mindset is beneficial to teams and groups, not just individuals. This program has also demonstrated the importance of collaboration, and if my students are willing to grow with their peers, their learning will be more meaningful and impactful.

Working with this demographic, many students I have engaged in conversation with have stated that they will always live in this neighborhood and will not be able to achieve much outside of their neighborhood. They have already buried themselves in the fixed mindset, and one of my goals as an educator is to expose our students to the endless opportunities that are available if they set their fear aside.