Message from iramos

[Anonymous]

I actually read some of this article to my 5th grade students because many them are easily defeated when taking on challenges. We examined some of the learning environment differences between Eastern and Western cultures then focused on the example of the Japanese student undertaking the challenge of solving the problem in front of the class. Many of my students stated that they would likely die of embarrassment had they been in that student's shoes, but following the outcome of the story, many believed that struggling was a good thing and embarrassment was a sensation they were likely to get over. They each wrote a paragraph on why it is okay to struggle and why people should struggle.

Since this activity, I have noticed a shift in some students' work habits and persistence. Some students are also less easily embarrassed when it comes to displaying student work, which has been amazing to see. I'm really glad to have come across this article. I know it is from years ago, but thanks for sharing!