The association between feedback-seeking and performance is moderated by growth mindset in a digital assessment game

Abstract

Researchers often propose that seeking critical, constructive feedback is due to a growth mindset. However, there is no evidence that mindset is related to feedback-seeking behaviour. This study examines for the first time the relation between mindset and feedback-seeking behaviour; moreover, it is the first time when this topic is examined in a sample of pre-service teachers. A number of n = 68 pre-service teachers at a North American university designed posters in an online game that assessed their learning choices (willingness to seek critical feedback and to revise posters) and poster performance. Then, they completed an online mindset survey regarding their ability to design posters. Results show that growth mindset does not correlate with feedback-seeking choices, revising choices, and poster performance. However, growth mindset moderates the relation between performance and learning choices (critical feedback and revising): individuals endorsing higher levels of growth mindset designed significantly better posters only when choosing higher levels of critical feedback or revision. Impact and implicationsResults reveal two novel theoretical distinctions: (1) this first examination of the relation between mindset and learning choices shows that growth mindset does not drive learning choices, but it seems to drive pre-service teachers' response to critical feedback; (2) fixed and growth mindset seem to be distinct mindset constructs, as they have different effects. As the influence of critical feedback on performance is moderated by pre-service teachers' differential endorsement of growth mindset, implications include interventions and teaching practice that inculcate a growth mindset and a critical feedback-seeking attitude in pre-service teachers. These interventions are necessary, as most learners would not know that constructive criticism is more beneficial for learning than praise, regardless of the mindset they endorse.