Watch before you read...
We’re revisiting the most-loved articles and related videos from the 2023 Think Tanks. In the first video, Nick Standlea explains key takeaways from Claudia Mueller and Carol Dweck’s paper “Praise for intelligence can undermine children’s motivation and performance.” Looking at the big picture, the second video shines a spotlight on fundamental questions concerning human-AI interaction. While we cannot live without bias, we can refine it and moderate it: The key is learning how it works, as is explained in the third video. In the fourth video, Jessica McCabe shares with viewers what it’s like to have ADHD. The fifth video describes three key parts of discourse analysis. In the sixth video, Lisa Mims persuasively explains why teachers should connect with students and care about their emotional wellbeing. Then, Heather Kretschmer introduces the issue.
In the Think Tank, Harumi Kimura writes about different ways students can experience growth mindset, while Louise Ohashi examines how the judicious use of AI can support foreign language learners. Stephen M. Ryan delves into bias, explaining how predictive processing invariably summons the four horse-persons: Bias, Stereotyping, Prejudice, and Discrimination. Then, Lexi Basciano explains what happens in the brains of people who have ADHD and how this impacts behavior. Next, Christine Winskowski proposes showing students in speaking classes how to do their own conversation analysis. Finally, Heather Kretschmer focuses on empathy and outlines activities that foster a caring classroom.
Growth Mindset: Don't Tell Kids They're "Smart"
The video highlights Carol Dweck’s research, which indicates that telling children they are smart may foster a fixed mindset, while emphasizing their effort nurtures a growth mindset. To encourage children to view challenges as opportunities to learn, Dweck recommends focusing on the process of learning rather than talking about innate intelligence. Find out more here in the video.
Evolving Interactions Between Humans and AI: Thinking Ethics of AI
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into daily interactions prompts questions about its ability to replace teachers. AI can assist humans in fields like education and healthcare, but its impact on human communication is uncertain. Questions remain, such as how interacting with AI differs from engaging with real people, and what this means for our relationships. Watch here to learn more.
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
In this video, the speaker explains the difference between System 1 and System 2 thinking. System 1 thinking involves fast, automatic reactions essential for survival while System 2 thinking is characterized by slower, reflective processes. Although each system can be advantageous depending on the context, it is problematic when we use System 2 thinking when System 1 would be appropriate, potentially leading to biases. Discover more in the video.
How to (Explain) ADHD
Jessica McCabe briefly explains how the brains of people with ADHD differ from neurotypical brains, for example in the ways they regulate their attention and emotions. Despite their unique strengths, individuals with ADHD often face negative perceptions from others, which can adversely affect their self-esteem. Find out more in the video.
Discourse Analysis
In this video, Evan Ashworth presents three ways linguists study language beyond individual sentences, providing concrete examples of each one. Conversation analysis examines how speakers manage conversations. Discourse analysis looks at how speakers use language to construct meaning and identity, while critical discourse analysis grapples with how language is used to construct meaning through the lens of unequal power dynamics. Watch the video here.
The Power of a Caring Educator
Using anecdotes that tug on viewers’ heartstrings, Lisa Mims highlights the importance of expressing care as a teacher. She emphasizes that fostering children’s social and emotional development is key for effective learning. When educators form strong bonds with students, the latter can more effectively demonstrate what they can do academically. Learn more here.
