Is It Better To Be Smart Or Persistent?

Alina Tugend of the New York Times quoted Professor Carol Dweck of Stanford and others in an interesting article entitled "The Many Errors in Thinking About Mistakes." Professor Dweck said

"Studies with children and adults show that a large percentage cannot tolerate mistakes or setbacks ... those who believe that intelligence is fixed and cannot change tend to avoid taking chances that may lead to errors." She goes on to say that "Often parents and teachers unwittingly encourage this mind-set by praising children for being smart rather than for trying hard or struggling with the process."

I have found in my work that our "A" students tend to have the toughest time with risk. They would much prefer a straightforward assignment with clear instructions rather than a problem solving activity. Their view of success tends to be the grade rather than the understanding. This makes sense as that process has served them well in the educational arena. The problem is that the world of work and of life is not made up of straightforward assignments with clear instructions.

Educators, what has been your experience?