In my classroom, a growth mindset is what keeps us going when things get tough. It's what reminds us that just because we can't do something yet doesn't mean we won't get there. Learning is messy. It's full of mistakes, questions, and moments when we feel stuck. But with a growth mindset, we see those moments as part of the process—not as reasons to give up. When I first created my Growth Mindset Plan, I wholeheartedly believed in the power of “yet.” Now, after working through EDLD 5313, I see an even bigger picture. I love what Carol Dweck says about effort igniting ability, but in my classroom, I am not just telling students they can grow, I am showing them exactly how they’re growing by using a combination of traditional teaching methods and new technology. It's not just about believing they can do it anymore - it's about giving them the right tools, at the right time, in the right way. 

The Role of Growth Mindset in Learning

A growth mindset is important—but it’s not everything. We can tell our students to believe in themselves all day long, but if we don’t design learner centered environments, where their voices are heard, their choices matter, and their learning feels authentic, it won’t stick.  A  growth mindset alone won’t create change. Yes, it’s an important starting point, but we need to pair it with a purposeful learning environment that not only nurtures a growth mindset but also inspires students to engage deeply with their learning.

Developing a Growth Mindset to Create a Significant Learning Environment

That’s why my new plan is all about creating a Significant Learning Environment—one that prioritizes choice, ownership, and authentic, meaningful tasks. I want my classroom to be a place where mistakes are just part of the process, where feedback is welcomed, and where students are chasing goals they actually care about. Because when learners feel like their work has real purpose, the growth mindset comes naturally.

In EDLD 5313, we emphasized the importance of significant learning experiences, and I now realize that mindset growth works best when learners are actively engaged in purposeful work that's challenging but also has the right support to keep you feeling confident.

Modeling Growth Mindset

But it’s more than just words—it’s about building grit, resilience, and self-reflection into everything we do. I’m not just asking them to do this—I’m living it, too. My Learning Philosophy is all about leading by example. I’m constantly learning, reflecting, and improving, and I want them to see that. Instead of stressing about grades, we’ll celebrate progress—because every little step forward and every small win totally counts.

Shifting Towards A Learner Mindset

Growth mindset isn’t the finish line-  its really the starting point. On its own, it cannot transform learning. It must be part of a larger framework that prioritizes authentic, meaningful work and fosters deep engagement. I’m not just teaching my students to embrace challenges—I’m teaching them how to become lifelong learners. What I really want for them is a Learner's Mindset—a deep, lasting belief that learning is a lifelong adventure. As I move forward, my goal is to create a learning environment,  that not only encourages students to believe they can grow but also inspire them to want to keep learning long after they leave my classroom.