Fostering a “Can-Do Attitude” in Students: The Power of Active Learning
by Dr Charles Margerison
As educators, we have a profound impact on shaping the attitudes and perceptions of our students. One of the most significant ways to help them succeed is by encouraging a “Can-Do Attitude”. This mindset fosters action, resilience and a growth-oriented approach to learning. It empowers students to embrace challenges, learn from their mistakes and pursue goals with persistence and confidence. This article explores the principles of the “Can-Do Attitude” and how educators can apply them to enhance students’ resilience, motivation and personal growth. We will also look at examples from Can Do Kids Worldwide, a platform I developed, to show how these concepts can be applied in the classroom.
The “Can-Do Attitude” and Its Importance in Education
When students develop a “Can-Do Attitude”, they are more likely to:
- Approach tasks with confidence and curiosity.
- Persist through challenges and setbacks.
- Take ownership of their learning and engage in self-directed problem-solving.
- Collaborate effectively with others, contributing positive energy to group efforts.
Research shows that students with a Can-Do Attitude tend to excel both academically and socially. By adopting a problem-solving approach, these students share and learn with one another, creating an environment of collaboration and mutual growth.
The Language of the “Can-Do Attitude”
The language we use can directly shape our mindset and influence our success. Phrases such as “I will”, “I can”, and “Let’s try” embody the essence of the Can-Do Attitude. When students adopt this language, they are more likely to take action, maintain resilience and approach learning with a growth mindset.
For example:
- Instead of saying, “This is too hard,” a student could say, “This is challenging, but I will keep trying.”
- Instead of saying, “I can’t do this,” a student could say, “I haven’t figured it out yet, but I will find a way.”
By modelling and encouraging the use of this positive language, educators can help instil a Can-Do mindset in students, boosting both individual growth and group collaboration.
Linking the “Can-Do Attitude” to Active Learning
The Can-Do Attitude is closely linked to the principles of active learning. Active learning involves problem-solving, collaboration and reflection, emphasising constructive thinking and teamwork. Students with a Can-Do Attitude engage actively in the problem-solving process, believing that their contributions will lead to meaningful solutions. They approach challenges not with fear or doubt but with the confidence that their efforts will make a difference.
Constructive thinking is a key part of active learning. It encourages students to test ideas and approaches to improve their chances of success. By embracing challenges with a Can-Do Attitude, students become more engaged in their learning, take calculated risks and approach problems as opportunities to grow.
Applying the “Can-Do Attitude” in the Classroom: Can Do Kids Worldwide
One practical way to integrate the principles of the Can-Do Attitude is through Can Do Kids Worldwide, an educational platform I created. This platform allows students to “travel” to different countries, exploring their geography, history, food, language and music. By learning about global cultures, students develop critical life skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and cultural understanding.
Example 1:
In a Can Do Kids Worldwide lesson on Brazil, students are shown a 5-minute video introducing the country. After watching the video, they work in small groups to discuss Brazil’s food, language, customs and geography. They then create their own travel guides to present to the class. This activity encourages students to approach the task with a Can-Do Attitude as they collaborate, problem-solve and creatively express their findings.
This exercise reinforces the Can-Do Attitude by empowering students to take ownership of their learning, work together and achieve a common goal. The collaborative and creative process deepens engagement and fosters a sense of accomplishment.
Example 2:
In a lesson about India, students explore the unique aspects of Indian dance and music. After discussing these cultural elements, students are encouraged to perform a simple dance or musical piece together. This task requires students to step out of their comfort zones, and the Can-Do Attitude motivates them to approach the challenge with confidence and enthusiasm.
The Role of Educators: Encouraging a “Can-Do Attitude”
Educators play a critical role in fostering a Can-Do Attitude among students. By modelling a positive mindset and using empowering language, educators can help students see challenges as opportunities for growth. This is especially important when students face difficulties or setbacks, as these moments provide valuable learning experiences.
Strategies for Educators:
- Set Achievable Goals: Help students set realistic and incremental goals that lead to a sense of progress and achievement.
- Celebrate Effort and Progress: Acknowledge the effort and growth students demonstrate, not just the final outcome. This reinforces the Can-Do Attitude and motivates students to continue striving.
- Provide Constructive Feedback: Focus on the learning process rather than just the results. Show students that setbacks are part of growth and learning.
- Encourage Collaboration: Create an environment where students can share ideas, collaborate and celebrate collective success.
Education Consultants: Expanding the “Can-Do Attitude”
Once educators have successfully integrated Can-Do Kids Worldwide into their classrooms, they have the opportunity to become education advisers. The consultants can lead workshops and train other educators to use the platform effectively, spreading the Can-Do Attitude to more teachers and students.
Educators can earn fees through these workshops by recruiting and mentoring other teachers. This professional development pathway creates a network of Can-Do educators, expanding the reach of Can-Do Kids Worldwide and helping more students benefit from this empowering mindset.
Conclusion
Fostering a Can-Do Attitude in students is one of the most effective ways to build resilience, confidence and success. By integrating Dr Charles Margerison’s principles of active learning and constructive thinking into classroom practices, educators can cultivate a growth-oriented, proactive mindset in their students. The Can-Do Attitude is not just a belief—it is a learnable mindset that shapes how students approach challenges, relationships and personal growth in school and beyond.
Through platforms like Can Do Kids Worldwide, educators can inspire students to engage with global learning, collaborate creatively and adopt a Can-Do attitude in every aspect of their lives.
References:
- Margerison, C. (2001), If Only I Had Said, Mercury Publishing.
- Margerison, C. (2021), The Language of Can-Do Attitude, Amazing People Worldwide.
- Margerison, C. (2023), Action Learning in Classrooms Beyond Artificial Intelligence, Amazing People Worldwide.