Elective Course
PSY306 – Science of Well-being
Course Unit Code: PSY306
Type Of Unit: Elective
Level of Course Unit: Undergraduate
Year of Study: Year 3
Number of ECTS Credits: 7.5
Class Contact Hours: 36
Mode of Delivery
Face to Face
Prerequisites
PSY101
Course Objectives
The purpose of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles and psychological factors that contribute to individual and collective well-being. This course aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools to lead happier, more fulfilling lives and to apply these principles in various personal and professional contexts.Â
Learning Outcomes
The following learning outcomes are expected, where students will:Â Â
- Acquire a comprehensive understanding of well-being, its components, and its significance in individual and societal contexts.Â
- Apply principles of positive psychology to enhance personal well-being, resilience, and life satisfaction.Â
- Utilize mindfulness techniques and resilience strategies to manage stress and promote mental well-being.Â
- Evaluate the efficacy of various well-being interventions, selecting and implementing evidence-based strategies.Â
- Examine cultural norms and societal influences on well-being perceptions, demonstrating cultural sensitivity and awareness.Â
Course Content
This course aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools to lead happier, more fulfilling lives and to apply these principles in various personal and professional contexts.
Week 1: Introduction to Science of Well-being
Week 2: Subjective Well-being and Positive Emotions
Week 3: Factors Influencing Well-being
Week 4: Mindfulness, Resilience, and Stress Management
Week 5: Positive Relationships and Social Connections
Week 6: Meaning, Engagement, and Flow
Week 7: Gratitude and Acts of Kindness
Week 8: Well-being Interventions and Applications
Week 9: Cultural Perspectives on Well-being
Week 10: Well-being and Community/Societal Impact
Week 11: Lifelong Well-being and Reflection
Week 12: Ethical Considerations in Well-being Research and Practice
Course Features
Teaching methodology: Lecture
Assessment:
- Midterm & Final Exam (30% & 30%): Mid-term and final exams will be conducted covering the entire course. Both exams will include multiple-choice, short-answer, and essay questions.Â
- Group assignment (20%), where students research and present on well-being interventions, assessing their effectiveness and applicability..Â
- Individual assignment (10%): Present real-life well-being scenarios for students to analyze, applying learned principles to propose solutions.Â
- Presence and Participation (10%): Students should be present and actively participate in in-class discussions.Â
Readings
Seligman, M. (2004). Authentic Happiness: Using the New Positive Psychology to Realize Your Potential for Lasting Fulfillment. Atria Paperback. Â
Positive Psychology Center (https://www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu/): Provides assessments, resources, and information related to well-being research and practices.Â
Action for Happiness (https://www.actionforhappiness.org/): A platform that offers courses, resources, and practical actions for enhancing well-being and happiness.Â
“Happy” (Documentary) – Explores the science of happiness and well-being around the world.Â
World Happiness Report (https://worldhappiness.report/): Provides annual reports on global happiness and well-being, offering insights into factors that contribute to happiness in different countries.Â
“The Science of Happiness” Podcast by Greater Good Science Center – Explores research-based practices and stories related to well-being and happiness.Â
“Happier with Gretchen Rubin” – Podcast – Offers practical advice and insights on cultivating happiness and building positive habits.Â
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