Abstract:

Resilience, also referred to as hardiness, grit and having a growth mindset, has a positive impact on learning in traditional face-to-face classroom environments (Duckworth, Peterson, Matthews & Kelly, 2007; Kamtsios & Karagiannopoulou, 2012; Yeager & Dweck, 2012). Resilience could also affect how individuals deal with problems and challenges that emerge in online learning environments. While some research has examined resilience in online settings (e.g., Berenson, Boyles and Weaver, 2008; Kemp, 2002; Xie, DeBacker and Ferguson, 2006), a comprehensive review of the research has yet to be conducted. The purpose of this paper, then, was to provide a systematic review of the literature on resilience and related psychological constructs (e.g., hardiness, grit and growth mindset). Specifically, we provide a theoretical examination of resilience, academic hardiness, grit and growth mindset as it relates to online learning. In addition, the impact of each of these constructs in online learning environments is discussed in detail. Finally, the educational implications of, and future directions for, research related to resilience, academic hardiness, grit and growth mindset in online learning environments are discussed.

Keywords:

Resilience, Grit, Hardiness, Growth Mindset, Online Learning.