Preservice English Teachers with Strong Growth Mindsets

Abstract

Students’ educational success has been associated with having a strong growth mindset. The researcher used a qualitative exploratory research design to describe the beliefs of preservice English teachers about strong growth mindset and its impact in distance learning. The researcher interviewed the 12 participants using a validated interview guide to explore their beliefs and impacts of having a strong growth mindset in distance learning. The transcribed data from the interview was analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that the participants believe that they need to have focus, a positive outlook, alternative plans, and mental strength to foster a strong growth mindset within themselves. Furthermore, a strong growth mindset helps them to overcome their challenges, it opens opportunities for them and keeps them motivated in distance learning. Lastly, students who are smart, motivated, and resilient demonstrate a strong growth mindset in the teacher education program.