On March 9th a book will be released that all educators should purchase so that they may be offered a glimpse into modern beliefs and research on genetics, IQ, and talent. The Genius in All of Us by David Shenk (@dshenk) does a nice job of explaining some very complex genetic theory in terms that anyone can understand. In addition, he offers information that should push us to think critically with regards to developing kids’ cognitive abilities and pushing them to new heights.
One of my favorite points of the book is when he is discusses achievers vs. nonachievers with regards to their process. Here is an excerpt:
Rather, nonachievers seem to be missing something in their process- one or more aspects of style of intensity of practice, or technique, or mindset, or response to failure.
He goes on to discuss deliberate practice and how it can make or break the success of an individual over time. It is this type of rational thinking and logic that will have any educator considering the implications that his knowledge and information can have on each of our classrooms.
Those that have an affinity for Malcolm Gladwell (10,000 hours discussed on page 57) or Daniel Pink (motivation is a theme throughout the book) will find Shenk’s work to be a great addition to their knowledge and theories albeit more science-based.
I found Shenk’s work to be the type of book that forces the reader to stop, think, and ponder every couple of pages. As an educator, there are too many circumstances to consider where his findings are relevant and will urge us to revisit what we do on an everyday basis in our classes.
Upon completing the “meat” of the text, the reader has the opportunity to read through the Sources, Notes, Clarifications, and Amplifications. Much of the information in this section is dense, but the beauty is that it affords the opportunity to investigate different parts of the text that are of particular interest to the reader.
As an educator, I am always curious about new research that will help me in understanding my students’ minds and how to maximize their potential. Shenk’s book will have you walking away feeling confident and reassured that none of our kids are destined to a life of mediocrity or servitude based on some heretical trait. All students can achieve greatness if we aid them in uncapping their potential.
If you are interested in more of Shenk’s work, he maintains a blog that also has posts allotted for comments on individual chapters. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did. Please feel free to read and leave comments here if there are any specific aspects you would like to discuss. If you put comments on Shenk’s blog, please let me know as I would love to join the conversation.
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This book is at the top of my list.
Thx Aaron.