Jicha, Mary

English

Liberty University Digital Commons

Research Week Abstract SubmissionTitle – A Growth Mindset: Fostering Resilience and Success in the Middle School Mathematics Classroom Program of Study – Applied Mathematics and Statistics Presentation Type – Physical Poster Subtype – AppliedMentor and Mentor Email – Professor Andrew Volk (ahvolk@liberty.edu) Student Name and Email – Mary D. Jicha (mdjicha@liberty.edu) Abstract: This research aims to use a systematic literature review to investigate the effect of students’ mindsets while learning in the middle school mathematics classroom. Mindset embodies the framework of an individual’s perspective and varies from growth to fixed. A growth mindset fundamentally correlates with positive, purposeful, and progressive learning. It is a powerful tool in a middle school mathematics classroom, which is stereotypically rampant with its converse, a fixed mindset. This stereotype stems from two main erroneous thoughts: There is only a one-dimensional approach to mathematics, and humans have innate, unchangeable amounts of capabilities. The primary questions driving this research involve the following: How do we measure a student’s mindset in the middle school mathematics classroom? Are specific mathematical subjects stimulating a growth mindset?  How can mathematics teachers foster a growth mindset in their students? What main motivations for success do middle school mathematics students’ have that correlate with mindset? Current research shows that a growth mindset fosters measurable success regarding resilience, engagement, academic achievement, and mental health. A correlating theory at the root of this research is mindset theory, which has two branches: Attribution theory and achievement goal theory. Understanding these theories can cultivate a deeper understanding of a growth mindset. Future research can aid and equip students’ pursuit of learning at their maximum potential despite their present skills, knowledge, and abilities. Keywords: growth mindset, resilience, mathematics, learning, middle school, capabilities 

A Growth Mindset: Fostering Resilience and Success in the Middle School Mathematics Classroom

https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?filename=0&article=2130&context=research_symp&type=additional

A Growth Mindset: Fostering Resilience and Success in the Middle School Mathematics Classroom

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