What mindset change is often beneficial for gifted students struggling academically?

Recognizing effort as a key to improvement fosters a growth mindset, which is particularly beneficial for gifted students who may struggle academically. This perspective emphasizes that abilities and intelligence can develop through hard work, dedication, and perseverance. When gifted students adopt this mindset, they are more likely to embrace challenges, learn from setbacks, and persist in the face of difficulties. This shift helps them view academic challenges not as threats to their self-concept but as opportunities for growth.

In contrast, believing that talent is fixed can lead to a fear of failure and an avoidance of challenging tasks. Utilizing failure as a therapeutic excuse can also hinder learning by promoting a victim mentality, where students may excuse their lack of progress rather than striving for improvement. Minimizing the importance of collaboration can limit the development of essential social and learning skills, as working with others often enhances understanding and problem-solving abilities. Recognizing effort as vital encourages a more proactive approach to learning and personal development.