Positive Psychology in Second and Foreign Language Education

This book showcases how positive psychology can benefit teachers and learners by exploring topics such as affectivity, engagement, enjoyment, empathy, positive institutions, and positive language education.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 04 March 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Positive psychology is a field of study that explores the factors that contribute to human flourishing and well-being. It focuses on understanding how individuals can cultivate positive emotions, relationships, and experiences in their lives. This book demonstrates how resources drawn from positive psychology can benefit both teachers and learners.

Affectivity and positive emotions are central to positive psychology. Researchers have studied how these emotions can enhance motivation, engagement, and overall well-being. Teachers can use these insights to create classroom environments that promote positive emotions and encourage students to engage in learning. For example, teachers can use positive reinforcement, such as praise and rewards, to motivate students and encourage them to persist in challenging tasks.

Engagement is another key aspect of positive psychology. Researchers have identified several factors that contribute to student engagement, such as interest, motivation, and autonomy. Teachers can use these factors to design classroom activities that are engaging and meaningful to students. For example, teachers can use project-based learning, which allows students to take ownership of their learning and develop their skills and interests.

Enjoyment is also an important component of positive psychology. Researchers have found that individuals who experience enjoyment in their activities are more likely to persist in them and achieve their goals. Teachers can use this insight to create classroom environments that are fun and engaging. For example, teachers can use games, puzzles, and other interactive activities to make learning more enjoyable for students.

Empathy is another important aspect of positive psychology. Researchers have found that individuals who are empathetic are more likely to form positive relationships with others and contribute to their communities. Teachers can use this insight to create classroom environments that promote empathy and social skills. For example, teachers can use role-playing activities and peer feedback to help students develop their empathy and communication skills.

Positive institutions are also important factors in positive psychology. Researchers have found that individuals who are part of positive institutions, such as families, schools, and communities, are more likely to experience positive emotions, relationships, and experiences. Teachers can use this insight to create positive school cultures that promote student well-being. For example, teachers can use restorative justice practices to address conflicts and promote positive relationships among students.

A positive L2 self-system is another important aspect of positive psychology. Researchers have found that individuals who have a positive self-image and a sense of belonging in their second language community are more likely to achieve their language learning goals. Teachers can use this insight to create a positive L2 self-system for their students. For example, teachers can use language learning activities that promote self-expression and self-confidence and provide opportunities for students to interact with native speakers.

Positive language education is a new area of study that draws on positive psychology to promote language learning and teaching. This book explores a range of topics related to positive language education, such as the role of positive emotions in language learning, the use of positive language in the classroom, and the development of positive language habits.

In conclusion, positive psychology is a field of study that has the potential to benefit both teachers and learners. By understanding the factors that contribute to human flourishing and well-being, teachers can create classroom environments that promote positive emotions, engagement, and enjoyment. Positive language education is a new area of study that draws on positive psychology to promote language learning and teaching. By using resources drawn from positive psychology, teachers can help their students achieve their language learning goals and develop the skills and habits that will support them throughout their lives.

Weight: 367g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030644468
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021