I've considered the role of struggle regularly over the past few years, both as a teacher and a coach. The NPR clip is from this morning and details cultural differences between East and West concerning "struggle" in schools. The Psychology Today link downplays the role of struggle, even going so far as to argue it's negative. As a coach, I bounce between teaching technique and proper training, both of which occur at low intensities- intensities which are far below those in a race. As a teacher, I want my kids to struggle, especially in the classroom, but there are basics they ought to know to make any struggle relevant.
Both are quick and easy, though the topics are not.
http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2012/11/12/164793058/struggle-for-smarts-how-eastern-and-western-cultures-tackle-learning?ft=1&f=1001
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/insight-therapy/201008/what-doesnt-kill-you-makes-you-weaker
Here's Carol Dweck talking about effort in practice at the college level: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLNx9fx_Ngw
ReplyDeleteAnd also a web site that builds on her book about Mindset - Growth v. Fixed - emphasis should be placed on growth:
http://www.mindsetworks.com/