Assignment Task:
Sometimes the greatest learning occurs when we have an opportunity to explore a topic that intrigues us or confuses us. This week's learning resources provide a window into the complexity of the three different constructs: self-efficacy, optimism, and hope. We will utilize this discussion forum to identify areas in which the class desires more information on the topics impacting the debate as to whether the three share a common thread.
1. Main Entry:
Class Contribution to Learning -- Positive emotions are not as easily distinguished as negative emotions. Anger and sadness are physiologically expressed in distinctive ways (e.g., facial expressions). Positive emotions tend to be more difficult to pinpoint because their cognitive and physiological responses overlap. For example, joy and happiness share similar facial expressions. Because positive emotions are more difficult to differentiate, there is a challenge to operationally define the common thread they share.
This week we will enhance our learning community through the exchange of thoughts and questions on these topics. This is your chance 1) to express your thoughts -- including points of intrigue or questions, and 2) to learn from the process of putting your ideas in writing and clarifying them as you and your classmate engage in thoughtful exchanges within this forum. Need Assignment Help?
a. Select one (1) of the following topics
o optimism
o hope
o savoring
o mindfulness
o flow
b. Once you have selected your topic, define the term in a sentence or two and provide a brief statement (3+ sentences) about why the topic captured your attention.
c. Accompany your summary with a reference and link to a solid, peer-reviewed article that explores/explains your selected topic. The reference must be presented in APA format and the link to the article must work. For this part of the assignment, I suggest you conduct your search for an article within Google Scholar.
d. In your authorial voice (i.e., own words) provide a brief synopsis of what the article is about. Include relevant details like theory outlined or hypothesis tested, and conclusions made by the authors. Also, express thoughts on the strengths and weakness of the article. Explain your thinking.
o Savoring - On p. 50 of the Kurtz article, 10 specific "savoring strategies" are identified for savoring the positive experiences in one's life.
e. Excluding "kill-joy thinking, describe the ones that you yourself employ. Are there some of the other ones that you should do more often?