Snapshot of the background of the survey tool:
The Free Will and Mindset Survey aims to examine the relations between several constructs that may predict children's resilience and persistence when facing challenges and failure. We asked children ages 4- to 9-year-old about their beliefs about choices: the possibility for them to act against desires, the possibility and desirability to do hard things, if there are benefits to failure. The survey is based on theory of change and growth mindset work, presenting a different way to measure and examine growth mindset in children.
Sofia shares the "why" behind her interest as a PRYDE scholar on working on a project that creates opportunities for 4-H youth:
I have always been interested in growth mindset because of its strong connection to resilience. I have done a lot of work with youth and have witnessed their hardships and struggles first-hand. Their ability to be positive in difficult situations or to turn weaknesses into strengths often save them and I've found that their mindsets have the greatest impact on their well-being. Developing a tool for growth mindset allows important people in their lives and programs to which they belong to understand how they can best help children believe in themselves and their abilities.
A quick sound byte on Sofia's experience helping to develop a tool that can be used in 4-H programs:
It has always been a goal of mine to have my research be applicable, that it does not stay in a lab, that it helps people. I have been exposed to the great work of 4-H since I first joined PRYDE and was honored to intern with Orange County's 4-H Parenting A Second Time Around in the summer of 2020. I have seen the beautiful impact and contribution 4-H has on youth, and was excited for the opportunity to give back in any way possible. I can think of no better organization with which to connect. I am excited to apply the work we have done and view it as less of a study and more of an intervention.
What's next for the Free Will and Mindset Survey:
The survey is an in-person or virtual tool that has 20 questions and takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes. It examines relationships between 4 to 9 year old's changing beliefs about the (im)possibility of self-control in relation to their beliefs about doing hard things. We are piloting in April with Schuyler County 4-H and are looking forward to sharing the survey tool with others. If you are interested in more information please contact Mel Schroeder at mcs35@cornell.edu
For additional information about PRYDE please visit https://pryde.bctr.cornell.edu
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