Evaluation of in-service inclusive education teacher mindsets: relationship between beliefs and practices

Abstract

<p>Innovative learning environments are educational settings that promote flexibility, and collaboration, thereby necessitating a shift in teachers' mindsets to effectively foster inclusivity in these dynamic spaces. Mindsets are our beliefs about human attributes, including abilities. The article investigates the degree to which in-service teachers, enrolled in a postgraduate inclusive education course, enact a growth mindset in response to an assessment task. Notably, the study reveals that although 80% of the participants self-reported having a growth mindset, only 44% demonstrated such a mindset in their assignment. The article underscores the need for a deeper understanding of mindsets among teachers to meet the challenges of aligning teachers' mindsets with their actual teaching practices. Implications for teachers in meeting the demands as responsive practitioners is discussed.</p>