education, two primary types of mindset are commonly recognized: a fixed mindset, the belief that abilities are static and cannot be developed, and a growth mindset, the belief that abilities can be improved through effort, appropriate strategies, and consistent practice. This growth-oriented mindset is particularly important in the learning of physics, a subject that many students often perceive as difficult. By cultivating a growth mindset, students are encouraged to become more confident, less afraid of failure, and more persistent when facing learning challenges.

Recognizing the importance of fostering a growth mindset, the Physics Education Study Program of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta organized a Community Service Program titled “Growth Mindset Training to Facilitate Physics Learning” at SMATQ Abi & Umi Boyolali. The training was conducted by Nur Arviyanto Himawan, M.Pd., a lecturer from the Physics Education Study Program.

The training aimed to improve students’ success in learning physics by strengthening their growth mindset. The speaker emphasized that many high school students struggle with physics not because of a lack of ability, but because of misconceptions about the learning process. A fixed mindset—such as the belief that “physics is only for students who are good at mathematics”—often leads students to give up quickly and avoid challenging problems.

Through an interactive approach, the speaker guided students to understand how the brain works when learning physics concepts, how mistakes play a crucial role in developing deeper understanding, and how a shift in mindset can enhance both motivation and self-confidence. One of the most engaging activities was the “Mindset Challenge” session, during which students were asked to transform negative statements about physics into positive statements that reflect a growth mindset.

Students of SMATQ Abi & Umi Boyolali participated enthusiastically throughout the activity. Many reported feeling more confident about learning physics after realizing that ability can be developed through appropriate strategies and persistent effort. This activity introduced a new perspective on physics education—one that emphasizes not only calculations and problem-solving, but also students’ mental readiness and learning mindset. As such, the program is highly relevant in improving students’ academic preparedness while reducing anxiety toward learning physics.