Research Does Not Support Growth Mindset Strategies in the Classroom: The Impact of “Culturally Fluent Ideas” (Volume 1, Episode 9)

Davey and Angela begin this Podcast by discussing Sesame Street and the broadcast's commitment to only airing evidence-based instructional approaches. They then contrast this with the dangers of implementing untested educational programs that are based on popularity rather than evidence. Based on a Blog by Dr. Howie Knoff, your Hosts then outline the lack of empirical evidence supporting the effectiveness of the very popular growth mindset interventions being implemented in schools across the country. A meta-analysis of numerous studies is described that reveals significant flaws in research design and reporting bias, suggesting that positive results are largely artifacts. Next, Davey and Angela reference Dr. Knoff's Blog discussion regarding the effect of "culturally fluent ideas" and how this bias explains why some educators continue to recommend or use growth mindset strategies in their classrooms. . . despite the contradictory evidence. The Podcast concludes by emphasizing the waste of resources and potential harm to students when ineffective classroom interactions, instruction, and interventions are used.