Neuroplasticity and Growth Mindset
What is the Neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity is one of the magical abilities in our brain to change and adapt due to experience. We can observe these changes in both functional and structural aspects. Functional changes occur as a result of brain damage, where functions are relocated from the damaged part to the undamaged part. On the other hand, structural changes refer to the brain's ability to physically alter its structure through learning. In this topic, I will primarily focus on structural plasticity.
Why do we need to understand neuroplasticity in our learning? The answer is quite obvious: it can bring significant benefits to us! Here are some of the benefits:
Improvements that can boost brain health.
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Strengthening brain where function is lost or has declined
The ability to enhance existing cognitive capabilities
The ability to learn new things
You may ask, "You told me about the benefits of neuroplasticity, but how can I improve it in my brain?" Yes, there are several ways to enhance it!
First of all, the most important thing is to allow your brain to get enough rest. Getting a good night's sleep has positive effects on both physical and mental health. Moreover, sleep plays an important role in brain growth.
Secondly, we can maintain regular exercise. Some research has found that exercise may help prevent neuron loss in key areas of our brain and plays an important role in the formation of new neurons in the same region.
The last way we can approach this is through mindfulness practice. Instead of engaging in physical exercise, we can simply close our eyes and imagine ourselves practicing and cultivating mindfulness. This practice can also enhance our brain's neuroplasticity.
Here is the link to the resource I found useful and referred to for some of the knowledge: What Is Neuroplasticity?
What is the Growth Mindset?
A growth mindset is a way of viewing challenges and setbacks. People with a growth mindset strongly believe that their skills and abilities can develop and improve over time, even when they face difficulties with certain skills.
A growth mindset is highly relevant to our learning, especially in the rapidly evolving field of IT. With technology advancing at a rapid pace, it is nearly impossible for any individual to master all of the skills and knowledge within the IT industry. As a programmer, it is crucial to recognise that growth and adaptation are essential in this industry, and both work and life may not always be smooth or without challenges.Having a growth mindset can be immensely beneficial in overcoming difficulties and maintaining a positive attitude. It helps us embrace the learning process, view setbacks as opportunities for growth, and stay motivated even when faced with obstacles.
The TED speech titled "The Power of Believing That You Can Improve" by psychologist Carol Dweck definitely surprised me because her theory, the power of 'not yet', gave me a new idea about how to approach difficulties. I used to have a tendency to doubt or question myself when I struggled with a problem, wondering if I could ever master new skills and acquire knowledge. However, the power of 'not yet' reassured me that I can achieve it in the future; I simply haven't reached that point of readiness yet. Moreover, it taught me how to encourage others when they encounter obstacles.
When the growth mindset emerged in my learning journey, I realised its tremendous usefulness. It not only provides me with encouragement when I face challenges, but also teaches me how to support and collaborate with my groupmates in larger projects during the Bootcamp.
Here is the link to the resource I found useful and referred to for some of the knowledge: What is growth mindset?
Also the link of the TED speech titled "The Power of Believing That You Can Improve" by psychologist Carol Dweck: The power of believing that you can improve
How do they influence my learning plan and strategy?
After learning about the concept of neuroplasticity and growth mindset, my learning plan has undergone some slight changes. I have come to realize the importance of incorporating regular exercise into my daily routine. I have also recognized the value of taking breaks and engaging in mindful practice to enhance my technical skills. Consequently, I have decided to allocate more time to these activities instead of solely focusing on repetitive exercise.
09 JULY 2023
