A detailed new study that was recently featured in The Conversation has provided some fascinating insights into poorly realised contributors to academic performance: the levels of nearby green space and traffic pollution. Joep Claesen and colleagues compared academic performance (NAPLAN scores in reading, writing, spelling, grammar, punctuation and numeracy) with the levels of greenery around… Continue reading Is green space linked to grades?
Blog
The benefits of boredom
"I'm bored!!" It's a whining expression that every parent knows all too well. But it's important to recognise that boredom can actually bring about many unexpected benefits. A 2019 experimental study by Guihyun Park and colleagues showed that boredom can be a gateway to new experiences and creative pursuits for many individuals. Interestingly, this was… Continue reading The benefits of boredom
Growth mindset and mindfulness reduce maths anxiety
Stanford Psychologist, Carol Dweck, formalised the concept of a "growth mindset" following many years of research into what underpins learning and success. Those with a growth mindset believe that intelligence is malleable and can improve with effort and practice. On the other hand, those with a "fixed mindset" believe that intelligence is largely fixed and… Continue reading Growth mindset and mindfulness reduce maths anxiety