Description
Book SynopsisGrowth mindset, recognition, mastery, purpose, emotional connection, intrinsic motivation, and metacognition: there is more to teaching literacy and children than books and lined paper. Research in positive psychology from the last 20 years can be translated to classroom practice. Each chapter summarizes the research and then works to make it applicable to the classroom, with charts of ideas based on age, examples of effective teacher talk, and stories and explanations from both practitioners and researchers.
Trade ReviewIn this valuable book, Conley focuses on the challenges and successes experienced by new and veteran teachers alike in order to highlight the power of positive psychology in our schools, classrooms, and communities. Using relevant research, effective examples, and insightful scenarios, Conley makes an impressive case for an educational renaissance that places intrinsic motivation in its rightful place: at the very heart of teaching and learning, and the driving force behind all that we do. Accordingly, she offers practical strategies and a wide variety of resources to help educators develop and model a growth mindset so that students are empowered to grow as lifelong learners. -- David Bosso, Connecticut Teacher of the Year and National Social Studies Teacher of the Year
Conley brings together insights from a variety of research areas and pedagogical programs under the rubric of positive psychology. Her extensive research and suggested readings, engaging prose, practical tips, and assemblage of voices from the classroom make this book a valuable resource for teachers who may not have the time to research all of these areas in depth. Her examples and citations make this a convincing argument that teaching well means taking seriously the ways we can build mutual respect, engagement, positive affect, and autonomy in our classrooms, and she offers teachers tool to do so. -- Nelson Graff, CSU Monterey Bay professor, researcher, and writer
As an accomplished full-time educator, Amy Conley brilliantly bridges positive psychology and intrinsic motivation research with practice. This is truly a transformative book for education practitioners and researchers alike. -- Tara Kajtaniak, global studies educator, teacher-leader expert, and writer
Table of ContentsForeword Preface Acknowledgments Chapter 1: Bringing Growth Mindset to Reading and Writing Instruction Chapter 2: Rethinking Rewards and Recognition: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation Chapter 3: Mastery: How to Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable Chapter 4: Autonomy and Gamification: Choose Your Own Adventure Chapter 5: Purpose and Relevancy: Making It Real Makes a Difference Chapter 6: Fostering Connection and Positivity Chapter 7: Metacognition: Bringing It All Together Conclusion About the Author Index
