Yeager & Dweck’s research suggests two theories of intelligence, one promoting resilience and the other not. Entity theory (fixed mindset) is about measuring ability and involves threats and defenses. Incremental theory (growth mindset) is about learning. In incremental theory, challenges and setbacks are perceived as helpful and there are opportunities to improve. For students, which theory they believe in will shape their perceptions about goals (eager to learn or eager to avoid looking dumb?), effort (a way to succeed or does it reveal a lack of talent?) and learning strategies (should they work hard or give up or cheat?). Not surprisingly, their research showed that students who believe in the incremental theory tend to be more resilient and earned better grades when faced with challenge (Yeager & Dweck,
Yeager & Dweck’s research suggests two theories of intelligence, one promoting resilience and the other not. Entity theory (fixed mindset) is about measuring ability and involves threats and defenses. Incremental theory (growth mindset) is about learning. In incremental theory, challenges and setbacks are perceived as helpful and there are opportunities to improve. For students, which theory they believe in will shape their perceptions about goals (eager to learn or eager to avoid looking dumb?), effort (a way to succeed or does it reveal a lack of talent?) and learning strategies (should they work hard or give up or cheat?). Not surprisingly, their research showed that students who believe in the incremental theory tend to be more resilient and earned better grades when faced with challenge (Yeager & Dweck,