Positive Psychology E

Faculty

Bethany Chamberlain

My academic background is in psychology and research methodology (MSc from University of Strathclyde, BA from Bemidji State University). My research interests focus on mental health and wellbeing, interdisciplinary approaches to research and education, and the integration of technology in teaching and learning. Since joining DIS in 2021, I've taught across both the Science & Health department (Public Mental Health) and Psychology department (Positive Psychology, Positive Psychology Practicum, and other courses). Additionally, I work with the DIS Faculty Learning Lab fostering dialogue around the responsible and beneficial use of AI tools in academic settings. My teaching philosophy emphasizes experiential learning and active engagement, prioritizing small group work, class discussions, and hands-on projects over traditional lectures. I strive to create opportunities for students to connect with course content both in and outside the classroom. Outside of DIS, I lead a monthly book club and enjoy spending time in my garden with my husband and three cats. I also love traveling and exploring new places and trying new foods. While I am currently settled in Denmark, I have previously lived in Sweden, Scotland, China, and various US states. I'm always happy to discuss experiences of living abroad, share book recommendations, or chat about research and mental health.

Course Description

The course will be guided by the mission of Positive Psychology: "to understand and foster the factors that allow individuals, communities, and societies to flourish" (Seligman & Csikzentmihalyi, 2000). We will explore what psychology says about human flourishing and happiness and investigate how human flourishing can be facilitated.

The course is structured around the three pillars of Positive Psychology: Positive individual traits, positive emotions, and positive institutions. We will critically examine the contributions of the field's founding figures and engage in lively debates about the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of Positive Psychology.

Throughout the course, we will seek to answer questions such as:

1. What is happiness and well-being?
2. What constitutes a good life for individuals, communities, and nations?
3. How does one's environment impact their psychological well-being?
4. Why are some nations consistently ranked higher in happiness and life satisfaction surveys? (Case: Denmark)

Teaching Approach & Course Structure

Teaching Philosophy and Style

My teaching style is highly interactive and experiential. Rather than traditional lectures, I create an engaging classroom environment where students actively participate in their learning through:

• Facilitated discussions where we collaboratively explore complex topics
• Small group activities that allow for deeper analysis and peer learning
• Real-world applications through field studies and study tours
• Student-driven discussions where you can contribute your unique perspectives
• Regular feedback and reflection opportunities to ensure the course meets your learning needs

You can expect me to:

• Provide clear frameworks and context for each topic
• Create a supportive environment for trying out new ideas
• Offer guidance while encouraging independent thinking
• Draw connections between theory and real-world applications
• Be available for questions and discussion both in and outside of class
• Adapt teaching methods based on class needs and interests

Student Expectations

The course includes a carefully curated selection of academic articles and readings. To get the most out of our discussions, you're expected to complete these readings before class and come prepared to engage with the material. Active participation means not just having read the material, but having thought critically about it: What questions does it raise? How does it connect to other topics or real-world situations? What might you disagree with?

Study Tours

As a core course, Positive Psychology includes both a short study tour and a long study tour. These tours are integral parts of the course, providing unique opportunities to explore positive psychology concepts in different cultural contexts and apply theoretical frameworks to real-world settings.

Short Study Tour: Western Denmark

Our journey through Western Denmark focuses on mindfulness, savoring, and the cultivation of present-moment awareness. Through visits to various locations and interactions with local residents, we'll explore:

• Mindfulness practices and their integration into daily life
• Techniques for savoring experiences and enhancing well-being
• The relationship between environment and psychological well-being

Long Study Tour: Prague and Brno

During our time in the Czechia, we'll examine themes of resilience and the power of narrative through the lens of historical and contemporary experiences. Key focus areas include:

• Historical narratives and their impact on collective resilience
• Storytelling as a tool for understanding and processing experiences
• The development of psychological resilience in response to societal changes

Both study tours include a mix of academic visits, cultural activities, and opportunities for personal reflection. Active participation and engagement are essential components of these experiences.

Evaluation and Grading

Assessment will be based on a combination of assignments, participation, presentations, reflections, and projects. Feedback will be provided throughout the course to support students' learning and progress.

Required Materials

Required Book (available at the DIS Library):

• Frankl, Victor E. (2006). Man's Search for Meaning. Beacon Press

Policies

Policy on late assignments:

Unless otherwise stated, the following is used for grading late assignments:

• If you turn in a late assignment within one (1) week, your grade will be reduced by 10%
  
  • For example, if you would have gotten 100%, you would now get 90%
• If you turn in a late assignment within two (2) weeks, your grade will be reduced by 20%
  
  • For example, if you would have gotten 100%, you would now get 80%
• If you turn in a late assignment within three (3) weeks, your grade will be reduced by 30%
  • For example, if you would have gotten 100%, you would now get 70%
• If you turn in a late assignment within four (4) weeks, your grade will be reduced by 40%
  • For example, if you would have gotten 100%, you would now get 60%
• If you turn in a late assignment by the end of the semester, your grade will be reduced by 50%
  
  • For example, if you would have gotten 100%, you would now get 50%
    

Use of laptops or phones in class:

Laptops are only to be used for appropriate class-related activities and should not be used in any way that will distract your peers. Your instructor will make it clear when laptop use is permitted. Phones and smart-watches should not be used in class. Phones should be placed in silent mode when arriving for class and students should not have them out during class unless you have a specific reason that has been discussed with the instructor ahead of time. If your use of technology is due to an official or unofficial accommodation you require to succeed in class, please let me know at the beginning of the semester and/or reach out to the appropriate contact at DIS (care@dis.dk).

Office hours:

I am usually available for unscheduled meetings after class on Mondays. Otherwise, please send me a message through Canvas to schedule a meeting (incl. preferred day, time, topic, and if relevant whatever file you want me to review before the meeting). With regard to scheduling meetings, plan ahead! In my opinion, it's always better to schedule a meeting you think you might need and cancel it later if you find you're progressing without issue.

Student organization and documentation:

Academic Regulations

Please make sure to read the Academic Regulations on the DIS website. There you will find regulations on:

• Course Enrollment and Grading
• Academic Expectations and Honor Code

AI Tools

Although AI tools are valuable, they should support human creativity and critical thinking, not replace them. Therefore, the use of AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) is permitted within defined contexts if you include proper attribution. Usage outside of the predefined contexts and without attribution will be considered a breach of our Academic Honesty Policy. Detailed instructions will be provided during the course.