A strategic mindset predicts and promotes effective learning and academic performance

Abstract

Using effective learning methods is central to self-regulated learning and contributes to academic achievement. We examined one psychological factor—a strategic mindset—that predicts differences in effective strategy use, and intervened on it. A strategic mindset is an orientation toward asking oneself questions that elicit the access and use of task-appropriate methods, especially in moments of difficulty or unproductivity. To investigate the implications of a strategic mindset on real-world academic outcomes, we conducted four studies with 7475 adolescent and adult students from over 30 Singapore schools. In correlational surveys, a strategic mindset predicted greater use of effective learning strategies, and in turn, higher exam performance. In a field experiment with 1070 students, a strategic mindset intervention increased students’ reported use of effective learning strategies, and in turn, exam performance, among more academically prepared students and in conducive peer environments. This research advances self-regulated learning theory in a practically impactful way.