Growing Brains!!!!

Studies have shown that growing brains are smarter than fixed brains. The very impressive Dr. Carol Dweck carried out a study in which two sets of student were given a study work shop. One set were taught that their mind was like a muscle and would get stronger if they use it. The other wasn't.
The group that was taught the brain growth approach actually did better at the end of the year then the group that didn't. And even though their teachers were not told of the experiment they could pick out the brain growth students in class. What's more the growth approach is now being used by race car drivers. It allows them to better learn from their mistakes and to do better on the track once a mistake is made.
This could be a great classroom technique. Motivation and attitude is every thing in the elementary classroom. Especially in a world stuffed to the hilt with standardized testing. If my students are "growing their brains" instead of "taking their test" then it changes the tone of the class. It also helps to make the classroom a more creative environment. It allows the student to take charge of their own learning. I am no longer giving out work sheets and assigning home work, I'm now giving them a chance to grow their brains.