But I know that I can simulate those traits through hard work. We all can.

Corey pointed me to an article on Scientific American’s site about the link between beliefs about the fixedness of intelligence and actual achievement. Here is my favorite excerpt:

In the growth mind-set classes, students read and discussed an article entitled “You Can Grow Your Brain.” They were taught that the brain is like a muscle that gets stronger with use and that learning prompts neurons in the brain to grow new connections. From such instruction, many students began to see themselves as agents of their own brain development. Students who had been disruptive or bored sat still and took note. One particularly unruly boy looked up during the discussion and said, “You mean I don’t have to be dumb?”

Check out the full article. It is worth the read:

The Secret to Raising Smart Kids

The author, Carol S. Dewck’s work is also cited in another favorite book of mine, Cognitive Psychology and Instruction. If you like the article and would like to learn more about learning, I highly recommend the book. You can find a link to it in my Open Source Education lens below:

How to Mentor through Lenses