Blackwell et al., 2007: Learning about the malleability of intelligence improved math grades among seventh graders over the next semester and improved classroom motivation
Reference:
Blackwell, L. S., Trzesniewski, K. H., & Dweck, C. S. (2007). Implicit theories of intelligence predict achievement across an adolescent transition: A longitudinal study and an intervention. Child development, 78(1), 246-263.
Download PDFSummary:
7th-grade students in a New York City public school took part in an 8-session workshop that used readings, activities, and discussion to highlight effective study skills and how intelligence can grow with effort and effective strategies, or workshops that focused only on study skills. Those in the growth-mindset group showed improved math grades the next semester, halting a downward trajectory shown by both groups since 6th grade, and more likely to be identified by teachers as showing improved classroom motivation (27% vs. 9%).
Psychological Process:
What Desired Meaning is At Stake?
What is the Person Trying to Understand?
Selves (My Own and Others')Approach to Desired Meaning
What about it?
Promoting growth-mindsets: Representing psychological qualities as capable of changeHow?
Psychological Question Addressed
Is intelligence fixed or can it growIs intelligence fixed or can it growPsychological Question Addressed
Is intelligence fixed or can it growPsychological Process 2:
Psychological Process 3:
Social Area:
Education
Intervention Technique:
Prompting with information