Over the past few years, ‘Growth Mindset’ and ‘Reflective Learning’ have become buzzwords in educational circles, heralding a shift in pedagogical approaches towards holistic student development. In this insightful interview, Ms. Greshma Momaya, Founding Principal, Prarthana.in World School, Banashankari, Bengaluru discusses the significance of a growth mindset in children’s development, effective strategies for nurturing it, and the integration of reflective learning practices into the classroom environment. Through clear examples and practical advice, she illuminates how growth mindset principles and reflective learning techniques intertwine to nurture holistic student development, urging educators and schools to embrace these transformative approaches in their teaching methodologies. Let’s dive in.
Prarthana.in World School (PWS), Banashankari, Bengaluru.
How do you define a growth mindset, and why is it important for children’s development?
As a school leader, I define a growth mindset as the belief that abilities can be developed through effort and perseverance. It’s vital for children’s development because it fosters resilience, a love for learning, and a healthy attitude towards failure. When students embrace a growth mindset, they become more resilient in the face of challenges. Instead of giving up when they encounter difficulties, they see them as opportunities to learn and improve.
For instance, I’ve seen students who struggled with math become confident problem solvers through consistent practice and determination. When they faced setbacks, instead of giving up, they sought help and persisted until they mastered the concepts.
In another example, a student who initially struggled with public speaking gradually improved by embracing feedback and practising regularly. With each presentation, they grew more confident and skilled, demonstrating the power of effort and resilience. By promoting a growth mindset, we empower students to embrace challenges, persevere through difficulties, and ultimately reach their full potential.
What strategies do you employ at Prarthana.in World School to nurture a growth mindset among students?
At Prarthana.in World School (PWS), fostering a growth mindset isn’t just a theory; it’s the very soul of our school community. From the moment students step through our doors, they’re enveloped in an atmosphere that whispers, “You are capable, you are worthy, and your potential knows no bounds.” Each morning, we start our day with affirmations, reminding every student of their worth and capability. It’s a simple practice, but it sets the tone for the day ahead, instilling confidence and a sense of possibility.
At the end of the day, we carve out 15 minutes for reflection, a chance for students to pause, breathe, and connect with themselves. With their student journals as companions, they delve into their thoughts, celebrating victories, and pondering areas for growth. In our bustling classrooms, we weave in mindful pauses, inviting students to slow down and tune into their inner voice amidst the chaos. These moments of stillness foster resilience and self-awareness, nurturing their ability to navigate life’s challenges.
Our curriculum is built on the foundation of inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to question, explore, and discover. It’s not about memorizing facts but about igniting curiosity and sparking a lifelong love of learning. And when it comes to assessments and feedback, we approach it with a human touch. We don’t compare students to each other; instead, we celebrate their individual progress and offer constructive feedback that acknowledges their efforts and successes. It’s about building them up, not tearing them down.
In our classrooms, we speak the ‘language of a growth mindset’, using words that uplift and empower. From simple phrases like “You’re making progress” to heartfelt questions like “How can we support each other?” we create a culture of encouragement and support. At Prarthana.in World School, it’s not just about academics; it’s about nurturing the whole child. Through human connection, personalized support, and a belief in their potential, we empower our students to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and become the best versions of themselves.
Prarthana.in World School (PWS), Banashankari, Bengaluru.
How do you define reflective learning practices and give examples of how you integrate reflective learning practices into the classroom environment?
Reflective learning practices are at the core of our approach to education at PWS. We see reflective learning as a process where students pause to analyze, evaluate, and make connections with their learning experiences. It’s about empowering students to actively engage with their learning, deepen their understanding, and take ownership of their educational journey. In our classrooms, we integrate reflective learning practices in various ways:
1. Embedding Reflection in Learning Plans: We intentionally include moments of reflection within our learning plans. For instance, after introducing a new concept or completing an activity, we allocate time for students to reflect on what they’ve learned, how it connects to their prior knowledge, and its real-world relevance. In our learning plans, we deliberately embed space for teachers to reflect on their lesson implementation. After delivering a lesson, teachers take a moment to consider what worked well, what could be improved, and any unexpected insights or challenges encountered. This reflective process allows teachers to refine their teaching strategies, adapt to the needs of their students, and enhance the overall learning experience.
2. Silent Reflection Activities: We incorporate silent reflection activities as part of our daily routines. Before starting a lesson or transitioning between subjects, students have a few moments for silent reflection. This allows them to mentally prepare for the upcoming learning experience and process their thoughts from previous lessons.
3. Socratic Seminars and Class Discussions: Our classrooms are dynamic spaces where Socratic seminars and class discussions are common occurrences. These activities provide platforms for students to engage in thoughtful dialogue, share perspectives, and challenge assumptions. After participating in these discussions, students reflect on their contributions and insights gained from their peers.
4. Enough Wait-Time: Recognizing the importance of giving students sufficient wait time during discussions, we ensure that there are pauses to allow students to gather their thoughts and contribute meaningfully. This approach encourages active participation and ensures that all voices are heard.
5. Incorporating Formative Assessment: Formative assessment is seamlessly integrated into our teaching practices. Through techniques such as exit tickets, quizzes, and peer assessments, we continuously monitor student understanding and progress. Students reflect on their assessment results, identifying strengths and areas for improvement, which informs their learning goals.
By weaving reflective learning practices into the fabric of our classroom environment, we cultivate a culture of critical thinking, self-awareness, and continuous growth. Students develop the skills to assess their own learning, engage in meaningful dialogue, and become active agents in their educational journey at PWS.
A Classroom at the School.
How do growth mindset and reflective learning practices intertwine to foster holistic student development in your classroom? Give examples.
At PWS, we believe that growth mindset and reflective learning practices are essential for holistic student development. For example, when students encounter challenges in math, those with a growth mindset use reflective practices to analyze their approach, seek feedback, and adjust their strategies. They might reflect on their mistakes, identify misconceptions, and try alternative methods to find a solution. Similarly, in writing assignments, students view setbacks as opportunities for growth. They reflect on feedback provided by teachers, identify areas for improvement, and set goals to enhance their writing skills in future assignments.
Moreover, students set ambitious yet attainable goals for themselves, using reflection to monitor their progress. For instance, a student aiming to improve public speaking reflects on each presentation, identifies areas for improvement, and sets specific goals for their next speaking engagement. Ultimately, by intertwining growth mindset and reflective learning practices, we empower students to take ownership of their learning, persist through challenges, and develop the confidence and skills needed for success in academics and beyond.
Prarthana.in World School (PWS), Banashankari, Bengaluru.
Do you encourage students to reflect on their learning experiences and set goals for improvement? If so how?
At PWS, we strongly encourage students to reflect on their learning experiences and set goals for improvement as part of our holistic approach to education. To facilitate this process, we implement several strategies:
1. Vision Boards: At the beginning of each year, students create vision boards in their student journals. These vision boards allow students to visualize their aspirations and set long-term goals for personal and academic growth.
2. Habit Tracker: Students use habit trackers to develop two new habits each year that align with their vision board goals. These habits are designed to support their journey towards achieving their long-term aspirations. The habit tracker provides a visual representation of their progress and helps students stay accountable to their goals.
3. Monthly Goal Setting: Students have space in their student journals to write down their monthly goals, breaking down their long-term aspirations into actionable steps. These monthly goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART), guiding students towards tangible progress.
4. Monthly Reflection: At the end of each month, students reflect on whether they were able to achieve their goals. They mark whether they achieved their goals or not and write down the reasons behind their success or any challenges they faced. This reflective process helps students understand their strengths, areas for improvement and strategies for overcoming obstacles.
By integrating these practices into our educational approach, we empower students to take ownership of their learning journey, develop self-awareness, and cultivate the habits and skills necessary for success in academics and beyond.
A Classroom at the School.
What role do teachers at your school play in fostering a growth mindset and facilitating reflective learning?
At our school, fostering a growth mindset and facilitating reflective learning isn’t just something we instil in our students; it’s a culture that permeates every aspect of our community, including our teachers. In addition to guiding students on their journey of self-discovery and growth, our teachers also embark on their own reflective learning path. Just like our students, our educators set monthly goals, not just for their teaching, but also for their personal and professional development. They carve out time to reflect on their progress, celebrating successes and acknowledging areas for improvement.
During staff meetings or professional development sessions, teachers gather to share their insights and experiences. They openly discuss what they’ve learned, reflect on challenges they’ve faced and share strategies for overcoming obstacles. This collaborative environment fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual support, where teachers feel empowered to learn from each other’s experiences and grow together as a team. For instance, a teacher might share a new instructional technique they experimented with in the classroom, reflecting on its effectiveness and soliciting feedback from colleagues. Another teacher might discuss a mistake they made while implementing a new curriculum, reflecting on what they learned from the experience and how they plan to adjust their approach moving forward.
By engaging in reflective practices themselves, our teachers lead by example, demonstrating the importance of continuous learning and growth. They show students that reflection isn’t just a one-time activity but an ongoing process that leads to personal and professional development.
Prarthana.in World School (PWS), Banashankari, Bengaluru.
What advice would you give to educators/schools who want to incorporate growth mindset principles and reflective learning techniques into their teaching methodology?
As an educator who has embraced growth mindset principles and reflective learning techniques in my own teaching journey, I have found several strategies and insights invaluable in incorporating these principles into the classroom. Here’s some advice I would offer to educators and schools looking to do the same:
1. Educate Yourself: Begin by delving into the concept of a growth mindset. Reading books like “Mindset” by Carol Dweck provides a comprehensive understanding of the theory and its implications for teaching and learning. Take advantage of resources like free online courses, such as the ‘Growth Mindset’ course on Alison, designed specifically for teachers and learners.
2. Apply Learnings Personally: It’s crucial to internalize the principles of a growth mindset in your own life before implementing them in the classroom. Reflect on how you approach challenges, setbacks, and learning opportunities. Implement growth mindset strategies in your personal and professional life and experience the transformative impact firsthand.
3. Engage Your Teachers: Share your insights and experiences with your fellow educators. Organize workshops or discussions to explore growth mindset principles together. Encourage your teachers to read relevant literature, participate in professional development courses, and apply growth mindset strategies in their own lives.
4. Implement Gradually: Rather than implementing changes abruptly, introduce growth mindset principles and reflective learning techniques gradually, starting with small-scale initiatives. Collaborate with your teachers to identify areas where these practices can be integrated into existing curriculum and teaching methods.
5. Monitor and Evaluate: Continuously monitor the implementation of growth mindset principles and reflective learning techniques in your classroom and among your teaching staff. Collect feedback from students, teachers, and parents to assess the effectiveness of these strategies and make adjustments as needed.
6. Lead by Example: As a school leader, lead by example by embodying growth mindset principles in your leadership style and decision-making processes. Create a supportive and nurturing environment where teachers and students feel empowered to take risks, learn from mistakes, and grow.
7. Celebrate Progress: Recognize and celebrate the progress made by students and teachers in embracing growth mindset and reflective learning practices. Highlight success stories, share best practices, and acknowledge the efforts of individuals and teams who demonstrate commitment to continuous improvement.
By following these steps and fostering a culture of growth mindset and reflective learning at both personal and organizational levels, you can create a transformative educational experience that empowers students to reach their full potential and prepares them for lifelong success.
