When students feel safe, comfortable and happy, they are more available to learn and take risks at school. Positive Psychology is the study of the human strengths and virtues that help individuals thrive. Throughout this course, the concept of positive psychology and subjective well-being (happiness) will be introduced and the relevance of using positive psychology strategies as multi-tiered interventions with all students will be researched. Participants will learn about the major factors that influence the overall happiness of students (such as positive relationships and school climate) and will learn strategies for utilizing this knowledge to increase student happiness. Specific models of improving student happiness will be studied with a focus on determining ways to apply these models while working with students across multiple settings. The role of the subjective well-being of educators working in schools will also be analyzed and specific techniques for using positive psychology to increase educator well-being will be studied. At the conclusion of the course, participants will be able to develop strategies that can be utilized to increase both student and teacher happiness. The content of this course aligns with the MA DESE’s core goals of creating a safe and supportive school climate that addressed the needs of all students.

Required Text: Promoting Student Happiness: Positive Psychology Interventions in Schools (Guilford Press, New York). Suldo, Shannon M. (2016)

Location: Online

Fitchburg State University - 3 graduate credits