ALISON KOENKA

About the Role

This study investigates the effects of academic labeling and math course ability grouping on 9th grade students’ implicit beliefs about intelligence, motivational beliefs, academic performance, and subsequent behaviors. The research will also examine whether a growth mindset intervention can buffer the hypothesized maladaptive consequences of these policies.

Results aim to provide timely insights for educators and policymakers on how information about academic capabilities should be communicated to students.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on the impact of academic labeling and ability grouping in math courses on 9th grade students.
• Analyze students’ implicit beliefs about intelligence, motivational beliefs, academic performance, and behaviors.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of a growth mindset intervention in mitigating negative outcomes.
• Disseminate findings to educators and policymakers to inform best practices in communicating academic capabilities.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Psychology or a related field (e.g., Educational Psychology, Education).
• Experience in research on learning mindsets, academic motivation, or related areas.
• Familiarity with quantitative and/or qualitative research methods.
• Strong publication record or demonstrated potential for scholarly output.

Associated Publications

For related work, view Alison Koenka's papers on learning mindsets in the project library, including:

• Can a growth mindset program overcome persistent messages about the stability of intelligence?
• Exploring Student Experience in Mathematics Learning

Alison Koenka, Ph.D. in Psychology, is a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Educational Studies at The Ohio State University and a 2018-2019 Fellow.