Positive Education

Wellbeing is related to learning in Positive Education

As a College we have had a Positive Education focus for a number of years, it is probably a timely reminder to get back to basics and remind our College community exactly what Positive Education is, why it is such an important part of Mount Carmel College and how it is intrinsically related to the learning of our students.

Positive Education is a growing field that combines the principles of positive psychology with educational practices to promote wellbeing and academic success. Positive Education is an approach to education that emphasises the development of character strengths and positive emotions in students.

Positive Education draws on the principles of positive psychology, a field that focuses on the study of human flourishing and optimal functioning. It is grounded in the belief that people can learn to cultivate positive emotions, such as gratitude, hope, and joy, and that doing so can lead to improved wellbeing and resilience.

Research has shown that when students feel happy, engaged, and motivated, they are more likely to learn and retain information. On the other hand, when students are stressed, anxious, or depressed, their ability to learn is often impaired.

Positive Education recognises this link between wellbeing and learning and seeks to create a learning environment that promotes both. Positive education offers several strategies for promoting wellbeing and learning in the classroom. Here are a few examples:

1. Cultivate positive emotions: Encourage students to cultivate positive emotions, such as gratitude, hope, and joy, through activities such as gratitude journaling, mindfulness exercises, and positive affirmations.
2. Foster positive relationships: Build strong, positive relationships with students and encourage them to do the same with their peers. Positive relationships are essential for promoting well-being and creating a supportive learning environment.
3. Build character strengths: Help students identify and develop their character strengths, such as perseverance, kindness, and curiosity. By building these strengths, students are better equipped to navigate challenges and achieve their goals.
4. Teach social and emotional skills: Help students develop social and emotional skills, such as empathy, self-awareness, and self-regulation. These skills are critical for promoting well-being and learning.
5. Create a positive classroom climate: Foster a positive classroom climate that supports learning and well-being by using positive reinforcement, creating opportunities for collaboration and creativity, and providing a safe and supportive environment.

By cultivating positive emotions, building strong relationships, developing character strengths, and teaching social and emotional skills, educators can create a learning environment that supports the wellbeing and success of all students. Positive Education is a powerful approach that has the potential to transform education and help students achieve their full potential.