eCore and Motivate Lab

The Math and Mindset Learning Project

Collaboration: Motivate Lab and the University System of Georgia (USG)

Project Vision

The goal of this collaboration is to transform USG’s online eCore courses from being focused solely on teaching discipline-specific content, to being growth driven classes that simultaneously support students’ learning mindsets.

Research has shown that it is possible to promote students’ growth mindsets by teaching students about the neuroplasticity of the brain and encouraging students to reflect on how effort, trying new strategies, and seeking assistance can help the brain grow to facilitate learning. The four activities we implement in eCore classes are designed to help students recognize the value of having a growth mindset and equip them with strategies for leveraging their own growth mindset.

How did this project begin?

In Spring 2019, Motivate Lab and the University System of Georgia (USG) partnered to create a growth mindset intervention for online college algebra classes. Intervention effectiveness was tested within the context of a randomized controlled trial and (positive) findings have informed iterations of the intervention in subsequent semesters. We are currently working with USG on scaling this project out to a wider range of eCore classes, which will be taken by thousands of students across the state of Georgia.

Early Results

Motivate Lab and eCore began implementing The Math Learning Project in January 2019. Early results show...

  • Across Spring 2019 and Fall 2019 semesters, 95% of eCore MATH 1111 students (N= 945) participated in at least one of the student activities

  • After reading about growth mindset in Activity 2, students reported an increase in their own growth mindset beliefs

  • First generation students earned significantly higher quiz and test grades

Want to learn more?

For more information on our work with USG and eCore classes, email Alison Lubin, Project Manager.