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IMPLEMENTING GROWTH MINDSET PRINCIPLES FOR GIRLS IN STEM ELEMENTARY CLASSROOMS THROUGH THE CREATION OF A CHILDREN'S BOOK

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Date Issued:
2016
Abstract/Description:
With an emphasis on STEM education in schools, young girls begin to have an idea that math and science skills are based on one's natural ability. A fixed mindset is the belief that one possesses an ability that comes naturally. Many girls, starting at the elementary level tend to interpret a lack of skill for being dumb, and therefore, give up on difficult subjects like math and science. On the other hand, a fluid theory of intelligence, or growth mindset is when a student values effort and understands that these "abilities" come from hard work and taking on new challenges. Students in a growth mindset see intelligence as something that can be developed overtime, while every learning opportunity, challenge, and failure is seen as an important step to becoming more knowledgeable. As a teacher, promoting a growth mindset in the classroom is key for student success; praising and encouraging students through the process of learning is more valuable then giving a grade for the final product. This thesis not only researched the differences between a growth versus fixed mindset, but also the value of fluid theories of intelligence, and the effects on elementary aged girls. This thesis includes a children's book that promotes the idea of a growth mindset with a protagonist who learns to see the importance of persevering, working hard, and attaining success. With the picturebook intended for elementary aged students, its hope is to bring awareness to students and teachers that having a growth mindset mentality is important.
Title: IMPLEMENTING GROWTH MINDSET PRINCIPLES FOR GIRLS IN STEM ELEMENTARY CLASSROOMS THROUGH THE CREATION OF A CHILDREN'S BOOK.
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Name(s): Van Westering, Jessica, Author
Buchoff, Rita, Committee Chair
University of Central Florida, Degree Grantor
Type of Resource: text
Date Issued: 2016
Publisher: University of Central Florida
Language(s): Engilsh
Abstract/Description: With an emphasis on STEM education in schools, young girls begin to have an idea that math and science skills are based on one's natural ability. A fixed mindset is the belief that one possesses an ability that comes naturally. Many girls, starting at the elementary level tend to interpret a lack of skill for being dumb, and therefore, give up on difficult subjects like math and science. On the other hand, a fluid theory of intelligence, or growth mindset is when a student values effort and understands that these "abilities" come from hard work and taking on new challenges. Students in a growth mindset see intelligence as something that can be developed overtime, while every learning opportunity, challenge, and failure is seen as an important step to becoming more knowledgeable. As a teacher, promoting a growth mindset in the classroom is key for student success; praising and encouraging students through the process of learning is more valuable then giving a grade for the final product. This thesis not only researched the differences between a growth versus fixed mindset, but also the value of fluid theories of intelligence, and the effects on elementary aged girls. This thesis includes a children's book that promotes the idea of a growth mindset with a protagonist who learns to see the importance of persevering, working hard, and attaining success. With the picturebook intended for elementary aged students, its hope is to bring awareness to students and teachers that having a growth mindset mentality is important.
Identifier: CFH2000089 (IID), ucf:45505 (fedora)
Note(s): 2016-08-01
B.S.
College of Education and Human Performance, School of Teaching, Learning, and Leadership
Bachelors
This record was generated from author submitted information.
Subject(s): Elementary Education
STEM
Growth Mindset
Fixed Mindset
Children's Book
Persistent Link to This Record: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000089
Restrictions on Access: public
Host Institution: UCF

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