TOPIC 1: Write about how positive psychology can further advance a field of interest (such as healthcare) or a need in society (such as nourishing our green environment) or a need in the world (such as positive peacekeeping in the middle east). A shortcut to this topic is, "Considering positive psychology's aim to enhance human flourishing worldwide, how can the field make a significant impact on promoting healthy environments and institutions?" We want you to think big and dream, using empirically- based constructs of positive psychology to support your vision. An example: "'Green' is a buzzword. Individuals, homes, businesses and communities are working to support environmentally friendly living. Positive psychology can help" (And then describe the ways in which PERMA, and/or self-regulation, and/or goal-setting, etc can support this effort). Have fun. PS. Write about how positive psychology can advance the career you are advancing. Since we have covered how positive psychology is advancing the field of education in the work of Dweck and the KIPP schools, if you are going to discuss education please do not focus on their achievements.
TOPIC 2: Write about how two specific research conclusions (from the readings, lectures, or the in-class guests) inter-relate, complement, or contradict each other. Here you have the chance to dig into the details of these research theories and offer you own analytical commentary. A shortcut to this topic is, "How do two research conclusions play off each other?" An example (not using 600 materials to avoid limiting your creativity!): " Goal-Setting Theory and Hope Theory are not only complements to each other, but ineffective without each other." Have fun.
TOPIC 3: Create a unique, comprehensive model organizing the ideas of positive psychology. We are not asking you to restate the five areas we covered or to regurgitate things you have read, but to consider a different model for how positive psychology concepts go together and interact. What do you think should be at the heart of positive psychology - is it the notion of flourishing, or something else? Can you think of a new way to unify the components of positive psychology in a novel theoretical framework?