(Meme on From The Left Field blog)
This week, I chose to read a critique of the growth mindset ideology. In an August 2015 article in the Salon, Alfie Kohn outline some of the perils arising from growth mindset. Particularly, he addresses how growth mindset can shift the focus away from the inherent value of educational material. The idea that anyone can succeed with the proper amount of effort ignores the fact that many schools are not providing quality curriculum. Sure anyone can memorize countless facts and regurgitate them on an exam provided sufficient effort, but should they?
Kohn also critiques the patronizing effect of praising effort. Praising for effort can communicate that a child is not really capable succeeding at a task, nullifying the reason for the praise. Constantly praising for effort becomes the verbal equivalent of a participation trophy. Kohn also points out that even praise is an extrinsic reward, which studies have shown to be less effective at inspiring motivation. Kohn also goes as far as saying, "praise communicates that our acceptance of a child comes with strings attached."
Ultimately there are more benefits to the growth mindset method than drawbacks for most learners, but it is important to always be critical of the message we are sending. I think that everyone can agree with Kohn when he says that students should be more interested in what they are learning then how they are rewarded for learning.
I invite you to read the article yourself and form your own opinion. What do you think?
The perils of “Growth Mindset” education: Why we’re trying to fix our kids when we should be fixing the system
By Alfie Kohn
I am so glad you looked at that article, Kalin! It caused a real ruckus on the Internet when it came out and, sadly, Kohn never responded to the many people who thought he was way off the mark there. I wrote a long reply, as did other teachers... my thoughts here :-)
ReplyDeleteIs It Growth Mindset If You Grade It? (I say: no.)