Click here to access the transcript of this webinar.
“Growth mindset”, is a concept developed by psychologist Carol Dweck (2015):
In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment. Students who embrace growth mindsets—the belief that they can learn more or become smarter if they work hard and persevere—may learn more, learn it more quickly, and view challenges and failures as opportunities to improve their learning and skills.
For educators, setting the stage for a successful school year begins with practicing and applying a growth mindset in your daily approach. Students with learning disabilities (LDs) can struggle with negative self-image, poor self-esteem and a lack of resilience; these students may have a “fixed mindset”. A growth mindset has been shown to increase positive learning outcomes for students with LDs, and educators can impact their students’ well-being and achievement by modelling a growth mindset for learning. This webinar provided educators with an understanding of the relationship between growth mindset and achievement, as well as resources and strategies for supporting students with LDs.
About the Speaker:
Susan Hallett has taught special education students throughout her career with the York Region District School Board and Ministry of Education. Her experience as a SERT, Special Education Department Head, Special Education Consultant, and her current role in resource services at the Trillium Demonstration School, have provided many opportunities to support staff development, leadership, and collaboration in schools across Ontario. In dealing with issues and challenges that numerous students and staff face, a positive growth mindset has been the passion that has guided her career to impact change and strive to achieve continuous improvement in the level of service that we offer our students.
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