In 2016 the EPS took part in a new programme of action enquiry research across Scotland focusing on closing the poverty-related attainment gap. This research was supported by Education Scotland as part of the Scottish Attainment Challenge.
Local and national data showed a noticeable decrease in children’s attainment in maths as they progress through school. In addition, children at this stage show decreased enjoyment and engagement with maths. Emerging research indicated promoting a growth mindset in maths can have a positive impact on attainment and enjoyment. This led us to focus on working alongside Secondary School maths departments to promote a growth mindset.
- Ten maths departments took part in this research.
- Two schools continued with ongoing growth mindset work.
- Four schools used the ‘My Brilliant Brain’ resource previously developed by the EPS. One school delivered Jo Boaler’s week of inspirational maths. Another ran a ‘lunch and learn’ session for staff to find out more about Growth mindset.
- One school took a whole school approach which resulted in several systems changes within the school including the introduction of resilience and growth mindset in their PSE lessons.
- The EPS produced research leaflets focusing on research in schools and how to carry out research. Click here to view leaflet.
- Research was shared at the Annual Conference of Scottish Educational Psychologists.
- Our research project is available on the Education Scotland National Improvement Hub here
