A Comprehensive Strategy Plan
Introduction:
As an architectural instructor, my goal is to foster a shift from fixed mindsets to growth and learner's mindsets among my students. Drawing insights from influential sources such as Couros (2015), Dweck (2006), and Harapnuik (2021), this strategy plan outlines a step-by-step approach to create a learning environment that empowers students to embrace the transformative power of a growth mindset.
Step 1: Creating an Influencer Strategy.
I will introduce students to thought-provoking content from renowned figures like Carol Dweck. Sharing her inspiring TED Talk on growth mindset will establish a foundation for mindset exploration.
Step 2: Building Mindset Awareness.
I will begin by addressing the differences between fixed and growth mindsets. To support this, I'll utilize engaging resources such as Denworth's thought-provoking article in Scientific American and Popova's insights from Brain Pickings. This will enable students to grasp the fundamental principles and implications of mindset.
Step 3: Leveraging Real-World Examples
Introducing students to architectural success stories rooted in a growth mindset is essential. By sharing a captivating YouTube video showcasing innovative architects, I will demonstrate how a growth mindset drives creativity, resilience, and achievement.
Step 4: Interactive Discussions and Group Work
Creating platforms for discussions and group work will encourage students to collectively explore the tenets of a growth mindset. Regular online forums inspired by Harapnuik's strategy (Harapnuik et al., 2020) will enable students to share insights, challenges, and success stories related to adopting a learner's mindset.
Step 5: Testimonials and Testimonies
Inviting former students who have transitioned from fixed to growth mindsets to share their journeys can be powerful. Testimonials (insert examples from your own teaching experiences) will resonate with current students, highlighting the practical benefits of embracing a growth mindset.
Step 6: Integrated Learning Resources
By curating a repository of diverse resources—such as relevant articles, TED Talks, and case studies—I will offer students a holistic learning experience. This collection will be regularly updated to maintain engagement and relevance.
Step 7: Periodic Self-Assessments
Implementing periodic self-assessment quizzes based on mindset principles (Sisk et al., 2018) will enable students to gauge their understanding and progression. Constructive feedback will guide them towards refining their mindset outlook.
Step 8: Scaffolded Challenges
Designing progressively challenging assignments that encourage risk-taking and resilience aligns with the growth mindset philosophy (Harapnuik & Thibodeaux, In Press). For instance, students might design an ambitious architectural concept, incorporating iterative improvements based on feedback.
Conclusion:
This comprehensive strategy plan is designed to guide architectural instruction towards a holistic implementation of growth and learner's mindset principles. By integrating renowned influences, engaging resources, interactive discussions, testimonials, and continuous self-assessment, the plan aims to empower students to adopt a growth mindset that enhances their architectural journey.
References:
Couros, G. (2015). The innovator’s mindset: Empower learning, unleash talent, and lead a culture of creativity. Dave Burgess Consulting Inc.
Denworth, L. (n.d.). Debate arises over teaching & growth mindsets to motivate students. Scientific American. Retrieved September 30, 2022, from https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/debate-arises-over-teaching-growth-mindsets-to-motivate-students/
Dweck, C. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Penguin Random House.
Harapnuik, D. K. (2021, January 8). How to change the world one learner at a time. [Website]. Retrieved from https://www.harapnuik.org/?p=8515
Thibodeaux, T. (2020, January 1). Exploring Students’ Use of Feedback to Take Ownership and Deepen Learning in an Online Program. Learning & Technology Library (LearnTechLib). https://www.learntechlib.org/p/208648/
Popova, M. (2014, January 29). Fixed vs. growth: The two basic mindsets that shape our lives. Brain Pickings. https://www.brainpickings.org/2014/01/29/carol-dweck-mindset/
Sisk, V. F., Burgoyne, A. P., Sun, J., Butler, J. L., & Macnamara, B. N. (2018). To what extent and under which circumstances are growth mind-sets important to academic achievement? Two meta-analyses. Psychological Science, 29(4), 549–571. https://doi.org/10.1177/0956797617739704