TITLE:
The Role of Grit in Education: A Systematic Review
AUTHORS:
Maria Christopoulou, Agathi Lakioti, Christos Pezirkianidis, Eirini Karakasidou, Anastassios Stalikas
KEYWORDS:
Grit, Education, Perseverance of Effort, Consistency of Interest, Positive Educational Outcomes
JOURNAL NAME:
Psychology,
Vol.9 No.15,
December
25,
2018
ABSTRACT: Grit is a non-cognitive factor that has received increased attention lately, since research indicates that it plays a significant role in successful outcomes in many fields, and more specifically in education. Grit is rooted in two facets, perseverance of effort and consistency of interest, captured by the Grit Scale. The current systematic review aimed at investigating the association of grit with positive educational outcomes, by exploring both antecedents and outcomes of grit. We identified 29 studies assessing grit in an educational context, published between 2012 and 2017. The primary findings demonstrated that grit shows weak to moderate correlations with educational variables. Its two facets play different roles, with perseverance being a stronger positive predictor of academic performance. Finally, positive variables, such as hope, positive affect and family relationships can foster grit. However, a deeper understanding of the grit construct is essential to distinguish it from facets of the conscientiousness dimension of personality. The usefulness of findings for policy makers and education professionals is discussed, as well as the importance of reinforcing grit in the educational community in order to nurture character in students and enhance their potential.