Week 1d2 Teacher and Student Mindsets

1. Sousa, D. A. & Tomlinson, C. A. (2011). Differentiation and the brain: How neuroscience supports the learner-friendly classroom. Bloomington, IN: Solution Tree Press.

1. Chapter 2: Mindset, Learning Environment, and Differentiation

Teacher and Student Mindsets

According to Sousa and Tomlinson (2011), “Brain studies suggest that a stimulating learning environment may have a significant impact on an individual’s brain development and eventual level of intelligence” (p. 33). Creating a stimulating learning environment is largely dependent on teacher and student mindsets that are influenced by beliefs, assumptions, and expectations.

Take a moment to reflect on your personal educational experiences and answer the following questions:

1. Describe a positive and negative classroom experience you have had in your educational experience and the mindset of the teacher in both those situations.
• Did you feel that your teacher’s mindset in both situations impacted your own mindset in any way? How?
  
  
2. Using these educational experiences and watching the video Building a Community, describe at least three ways in which you will create your own positive and stimulated learning environment.
• How will you create an atmosphere where students can take intellectual risks without fear of ridicule?
• How will you manage inappropriate behavior, avoid bullying and put-downs?
• What steps will you take to create an atmosphere where students feel safe and included?

Be sure to use evidence from the text to support your assertions.