Jo Boaler: The Importance of Brain Science and Mindset to Mathematics Teaching and Learning

Summary: We are in the midst of a revolution, in the science of the brain and learning. New knowledge from brain science is showing a clear path for mathematics learning, that is both exciting and inspiring for teachers. In recent years scientific studies have also demonstrated that student and teacher ‘mindsets’ have a profound impact on learning. Students with a ‘growth mindset’ who believe that intelligence and ‘smartness’ can be learned and that the brain can grow from exercise learn more effectively, displaying a desire for challenge and showing resilience in the face of failure. Such behaviors encourage greater mathematics persistence, engagement and high achievement. Mathematics teachers and parents play a critical role in the development of mindsets and this session will review the new and exciting science of the brain and mindset. In the first part of today we will consider together - through classroom videos and mathematical activities - ways to create empowering student pathways through open, creative mathematics infused with brain and mindset messages. Original title: Opening Mathematics: The Importance of Brain Science and Mindset to Mathematics Teaching and Learning Lecture by Professor Jo Boaler, Stanford University. This is part one of a two part lecture. This lecture was held at the Holmboe symposium 2017. The symposium is an annual symposium for math teachers in Norway supported by The Abel Prize and hosted by The Norwegian Mathematical Council. The sympoisum is named after Niels Henrik Abels teacher, Bernt Michael Holmboe, credited for discovering and cultivating Niels Henrik Abels talent.