Path Analysis Between Growth Mindset and Math Achievement: A Systematic Review

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 13
  In Roundtable Session: Studying Effects on Students' Mathematics Aspirations and Course-Taking

Abstract

Growth mindset involves the belief that increased effort can have a positive impact on improving performance whereas a fixed mindset is the belief that one’s abilities are unchangeable. The study is a systematic review that investigates the direct and indirect effects between growth mindset and math achievement using path analysis. Based on the literature search, eight studies sufficiently met the inclusion criteria. A majority of studies in this review conceptualized and verified that growth mindset has an indirect effect on math achievement. Several variables were found to have positive mediating or moderating effects such as group composition, positive strategies, and expectancy. Only depression was found to negatively mediate the association between growth mindset and math achievement.

Authors

• Amaniel Mrutu, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

• Martin Van Boekel, University of Minnesota

• Mohammed A. A. Abulela, University of Minnesota