Lecture Notes: Understanding Grit and Its Importance in Success

Introduction

• Transition from management consulting to teaching.
• Experience in teaching seventh-grade math in NYC public schools.
• Observations about student performance related to IQ and effort.

Key Observations

• IQ is not the sole determinant of student success.
• Students with lower IQ scores can perform well.
• Hard work and perseverance can enable learning challenging concepts.

Shift to Psychology

• Pursued psychology to explore motivational and psychological aspects of learning.
• Questioned the broader factors influencing success beyond IQ.

Research on Success

• Studied various contexts:
  • West Point Military Academy
  • National Spelling Bee
  • New teachers in tough environments
  • Corporate salespeople
• Aim: Predict success and identify key characteristics.

Discovery: Grit

• Grit emerged as a strong predictor of success.
• Definition of Grit:
  • Passion and perseverance for long-term goals.
  • Stamina and consistent effort over years.
  • Approach life as a marathon, not a sprint.

Studies on Grit

• Investigated grit in Chicago public schools.
• Correlation between grit and graduation rates.
• Grittier students more likely to succeed irrespective of other factors (income, test scores, etc.).

The Challenge of Building Grit

• Limited knowledge on how to develop grit.
• Common questions from parents and teachers.
• Talent does not equate to grit; often inversely related.

Growth Mindset as a Tool

• Developed by Carol Dweck at Stanford University.
• Belief in learning ability as adaptable and effort-driven.
• Understanding brain growth encourages perseverance.

Conclusion: The Path Forward

• Importance of testing and measuring strategies to build grit.
• Willingness to fail and learn is crucial.
• "Be gritty about getting our kids grittier."