FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

To foster a growth mindset in students, a teacher should emphasize which of the following?

1. The importance of innate intelligence

2. The impact of effort on learning

3. The value of competition among peers

4. The necessity of memorization for success

The correct answer is: The impact of effort on learning

Emphasizing the impact of effort on learning is crucial for fostering a growth mindset in students. A growth mindset, as proposed by psychologist Carol Dweck, is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. When teachers highlight the relationship between effort and learning, students come to understand that their achievements are not solely dependent on their innate abilities but can improve significantly through persistence, practice, and resilience. By focusing on effort, educators encourage students to embrace challenges, learn from criticism, and persist through difficulties. This perspective helps learners view setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than as failures. It cultivates a love for learning and enhances motivation, leading to better academic outcomes. Other approaches, such as emphasizing innate intelligence, competition, or the necessity of memorization, do not align with the principles of a growth mindset. These alternatives can inadvertently promote a fixed mindset, where students might believe their abilities are static or that success is determined by comparisons with others, rather than by their own efforts and perseverance. Fostering a growth mindset requires creating an environment where effort and improvement are valued above mere results or comparisons.