What Makes a Student 'Smart' #2

Due to popular request, I am starting a weekly blog on what makes a student “smart.” I am glad there are readers out there who are interested!

Process-oriented learning is far more effective than product-oriented learning, whether it is academics or sports. Product-oriented learning is only focusing on the end result (grades); it promotes test anxiety, stressed out students and parents, and learning for all the wrong reasons. Process-oriented learning is focused on carefully aimed, attainable personal goals one step at a time. Because of this, process-oriented learning increases motivation, feelings of self-control and self-esteem.

Any student can benefit from process-oriented learning. Here’s how it works:

Rule #1: Set 2-3 small attainable goals by day, aimed and adjusted at specific progress by the end of the day and week (knowing that adjusting longer-term goals is the norm). These goals must be specific. For example, “I will practice math problems with my teacher Tuesday and Thursday at break” rather than “I want to get an ‘A’ in math.” Smart students are realistic goal-setters; they set themselves up to succeed by attainable goals aimed at self-improvement in manageable steps.

Rule #2: There is no negative self-talk in process-oriented learning, such as, “I can’t believe I blew that test; I am so stupid.” Instead, there is persistent self-honesty and encouragement, “I probably blew that test because I stayed up late cramming. Next time, I’ll be sure to start studying two days out and get enough sleep the night before.” Smart students talk to themselves in an honest and encouraging way; they constantly analyze their performance in the light of what they can do better the next time because they feel control of their improvement.

Rule #3: Seek friends and adults who are motivating, helpful and who also love the process of being their best. Seeking mentors and positive friends is an energizing way to live and gain constant valuable feedback. Teenagers waste so much time anguishing over bad relationships and negative people. Move on! Smart students seek out people who will help, support and inspire them; they avoid negative relationships.

Success in school (and life) is so much bigger than “just doing the homework.” Doing the minimum is a self-defeating way to live. Parents and teachers can certainly help students become process-oriented learners, but only the student can really be in charge of their success.

A student focused on his or her own process, one day at a time, who thinks and acts in a way that is self-enhancing rather than self-defeating, participates in a self-responsible venture. These students are happy and motivated by their own successes and challenges. They see mistakes as opportunities to improve, and they are all about finding out how to meet the next challenge. They set realistic goals and get the help they need to attain those goals. They don’t pressure themselves for vague achievements such as “an ‘A’ on the test” or “winning the next match.”

The key is in a process-oriented learning outlook; focusing on process will bring the desired product without undue stress and fear of failure. Anyone can do this and be a “smart student.”