How fostering productive struggle will transform your instruction
For the past two decades, education researchers have explored the impact of productive struggle on K-12 students, particularly in mathematics instruction. But only recently has the term broken into the mainstream—its inclusion in the new California math framework indicates its rising popularity.
So, what is productive struggle?
Productive struggle is the process of grappling with a challenging concept in a way that fosters deep learning. Signs include:
Struggle must fall within the “zone of proximal discomfort”—challenging but not overwhelming. When productive, it leads to stronger conceptual understanding and skill transfer, as research shows.
How can you foster productive struggle?
For Schools & Districts:
For Teachers:
I joined forces with Carnegie Learning experts for ‘The Power of Yet’ webinar recently, and you can check it our for research-based strategies and practical tips for creating a growth-oriented learning environment that encourages your students to persist through. And remember:
Never apologize for making a mistake. Rather than thinking about right or wrong, tell yourself, 'I'm figuring it out.'
– Robert Ahdoot , Founder of YayMath.org and MATHstreamer
Read the full article on Carnegie Learning's blog.
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?? PROFESSIONAL LEARNING: The National Institutes
Your dream professional learning experience is coming up, and we’re getting your name tag ready! Our collaborative learning sessions, dynamic Power Talks from speakers like Peter Liljedahl, and networking opportunities will make you wonder how you ever survived those stuffy, sit-and-get traditional conferences.And did we mention the luxurious resort locations? Think of The National Institute (TNI) as a summer getaway to rejuvenate your educator mind and soul, with a take-home goody bag packed with ideas, strategies, and inspiration for your district or classroom.
Save your seat for #TNI2025 here.
?? WEBINAR AND REPORT: From Hype to Help: The State of AI in Education
Our second annual AI in Education survey yielded some surprises! Find out how AI use has evolved for K-12 administrators and teachers over the past year in our new report. We'll dig into the insights and separate AI hype from reality in our upcoming virtual event, where you'll learn best practices for integrating AI into your teaching practice or leadership role.
Download the report and register to attend our March 26?virtual event with Amanda Bickerstaff of AI for Education , held at?3 pm ET/12 pm PT.
?? WIN BIG with our #PowerOfYetChallenge!
We challenge YOU to supercharge the power of productive struggle in your math classroom for a chance to win an all-expenses paid trip to #TNI2025! Download a bingo card, complete three in a row, post it and tag us + #PowerOfYetChallenge, or send it in an email to [email protected]
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Eligibility and instructions at www.carnegielearning.com/bingo. Void where prohibited. Starts 2/19/2025 and ends 3/14/2025.
OFFICIAL RULES: https://carnegielearning.com/bingo-rules. Odds vary. Prize requires travel and attendance at 1 TNI event summer 2025. Prize ARV: $4,000. Sponsor: Carnegie Learning, Inc., Pittsburgh, PA.
Free teaching resources, just for you:
See Peter Liljedahl deliver a Power Talk on Building Thinking Classrooms at The National Institutes this summer. Register here.
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2 周These concepts are absolutely incredible! I appreciate the term progressive struggle! It make me think of the transformation and transition of the caterpillar into a butterfly. ?? I know this message was for educators, however I feel it to be helpful and applicable in my work as an entrepreneur and as a Life Coach! Thank you! ????