What's Happening?
Equity Accelerator (EA), a research organization, has introduced a new online professional development course aimed at promoting 'growth mindset' cultures in college classrooms. The course, titled 'Creating Growth Mindset Cultures in College Classrooms,'
consists of seven modules that educators can complete at their own pace. Developed by EA founder Mary Murphy, a professor at Indiana University, the course is designed to shift the focus from a fixed mindset, which views abilities as innate, to a growth mindset, which emphasizes the potential for improvement through effort and effective teaching strategies. Historically, the concept of growth mindset has been applied primarily to students, but recent research highlights the significant role instructors play in shaping students' perceptions of their abilities. The course includes practical strategies for instructors to implement in their teaching practices, such as adjusting syllabus language and feedback mechanisms. Initial studies have shown that these interventions can lead to improved student experiences and academic outcomes.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of this course is significant as it addresses the growing need for educational institutions to adapt teaching methods that foster student engagement and success. As trust in higher education declines and more students question the value of college, creating supportive learning environments becomes crucial. By equipping instructors with tools to promote a growth mindset, the course aims to enhance student performance and retention rates. This initiative could potentially lead to a broader cultural shift in higher education, where the focus is on continuous improvement and inclusivity. The course's emphasis on low-lift strategies makes it accessible for instructors, encouraging widespread adoption. As more institutions integrate these practices, the overall quality of education could improve, benefiting both students and educators.
What's Next?
Two institutions have already committed to offering the course to their faculty in 2026, indicating a growing interest in adopting growth mindset principles in higher education. As the course gains traction, it is likely that more colleges and universities will follow suit, potentially leading to widespread changes in teaching practices. The course's self-paced nature allows for flexible implementation, and it can also be used in group settings, fostering collaborative learning among faculty. As more educators complete the training, the impact on student outcomes will be closely monitored, providing valuable data to further refine and expand the program. The success of this initiative could inspire similar efforts in other educational sectors, including K-12, where growth mindset concepts are already more prevalent.
