You may be familiar with Angela Duckworth (University of Pennsylvania psychologist) and her work on “grit.” Duckworth describes grit as a fusion of passion, perseverance, tenacity and resilience that can be cultivated regardless of IQ or circumstance. Duckworth’s research (described in her recent book) suggests that outstanding achievement – whether in school, work, business or sport – is less a function of talent than it is of grit. This recent essay by Daniel Porterfield, president of Franklin and Marshall College, explores potential implications of grit research for post-secondary education. Should our admissions processes consider grit? Can our curricula and co-curricula intentionally cultivate grit? What is the relationship between grit and educational outcomes in higher education?

Is there a SoTL project lurking here?