Implementing the Infinite Mindset in Higher Ed
I believe in the unique, innate intelligence of each individual and aspire to cultivate the next generation of scientists by fostering an environment that is conducive to learning, creativity, personal and professional development.
The “infinite mindset” was inspired by The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek (https://simonsinek.com/books/the-infinite-game/). His philosophy centers on stepping beyond the immediate finite game with specific players, set rules, and a well-defined endpoint that can be won and instead concentrating on a long-term just cause that can make the world a better place.
In addition to this inspiration, my guiding philosophy for fostering creativity in higher ed was fueled by The Meaning in the Making by Sean Tucker (https://www.seantucker.photography/the-meaning-in-the-making). His talent as an artist shines in that he elegantly demonstrates how to apply curiosity, kindness, and purposefulness to one’s search for meaning and why it is worth considering by examples from his own creative journey.
Although people have applied these concepts to business industries, related organizations, and creative outlets, no one has translated them into undergraduate and graduate education. Thus, I strive to instill the infinite and creative mindset in higher ed, whereby students and educators are intrinsically motivated to explore and create rather than being extrinsically motivated by the acceptance they receive.
“The first concept I really pondered was the core of the talk which was the infinite mindset regarding undergrad research. I really have been thinking of research as a short-term goal which, unfortunately, is how high schools teach us to think about school. I have been neglecting to think about my research as a career advancement which is what it really is. While I am helping advance knowledge in my field, I need to remember that this is also helping advance my career. The other point that she touched on was patience. I think other people appreciated this point she made as well. As a whole, our society is so rushed and even in some research projects, people expect immediate results. It is especially hard for people of my age to realize that these projects take months and even years of data collection and analysis for even a basic answer. While I have realized this firsthand in my own senior project which is now approaching a year of work, it was a relief to have Dr. Tran confirm that it is good to sit back and realize that the whole research process will take time.”
— Excerpts from student reflection essays and comments from my seminars