11 AAQ 6

Directions: Your response to the question should be provided in six parts: A, B, C, D, E, and F. Write the response to each part of the question in complete sentences. Use appropriate psychological terminology in your response.

           Using the source provided, respond to all parts of the question.

(A) Identify the research method used in the study.

(B) State one way the dependent variable was operationally defined.

(C) Identify any potential confounding variables that could influence participants' performance, and explain how they might impact the results.

(D) Identify at least one ethical guideline applied by the researchers.

(E) Explain the extent to which the research findings may or may not be generalizable using specific and relevant evidence from the study.

(F) Explain how the findings support th hypothesis that a fixed mindset negatively impacts academic performance and that interventions promoting a growth mindset can improve outcomes.

Introduction

This study investigates the effect of a fixed mindset, characterized by the belief that abilities are static and unchangeable, on academic performance among high school students. Researchers compared students who received interventions aimed at promoting a growth mindset with those who did not receive such interventions.

Participants

The study involved 200 high school students from a large suburban school district. The students were equally divided by grade level (9th to 12th grade) and gender.

Method

Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: the intervention group and the control group. Before the workshops began, all participants and their guardians provided informed consent, with a detailed explanation of the study's purpose, procedures, potential benefits, and risks. The intervention group participated in a series of workshops designed to encourage a growth mindset by promoting the idea that intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort and learning. These workshops were conducted once a week for a month and included activities, discussions, and multimedia presentations. The control group received no such interventions and continued with their regular school curriculum.

Each student's academic performance was assessed at the beginning of the study and after the intervention period using standardized tests that measure mathematical reasoning and verbal skills. Additionally, each participant completed a survey designed to assess their mindset (fixed vs. growth) at both time points.

Results and Discussion

The results indicated that students in the intervention group showed a significant improvement in their academic performance compared to the control group. Moreover, changes in mindset scores from fixed to growth correlated positively with academic performance improvement.