The Discussion Board (DB) is part of the core of online learning. Classroom discussion in an online environment requires the active participation of students and the instructor to create robust interaction and dialogue. Every student is expected to create an original response to the open-ended DB question as well as engage in dialogue by responding to posts created by others throughout the week. At the end of each unit, DB participation will be assessed based on both level of engagement and the quality of the contribution to the discussion.

At a minimum, each student will be expected to post an original and thoughtful response to the DB question and contribute to the weekly dialogue by responding to at least two other posts from students. The first contribution must be posted before midnight (Central Time) on Wednesday of each week. Two additional responses are required after Wednesday of each week. Students are highly encouraged to engage on the Discussion Board early and often, as that is the primary way the university tracks class attendance and participation.

The purpose of the Discussion Board is to allow students to learn through sharing ideas and experiences as they relate to course content and the DB question. Because it is not possible to engage in two-way dialogue after a conversation has ended, no posts to the DB will be accepted after the end of each week.

A. Questions for weekly discussions and conversations (not part of the required Discussion Board assignment)

These questions can serve as the starting point for your discussions during the week. They are “thought starters,” so that you can explore some ideas associated with the discussion board and unit topics. Answers are not required, and should not be submitted with your required assignment. Answers are not graded.

• Do you think that positive psychology is in more demand now that stress and economic hardship is more prominent in our country?
• Are people under more stress now than in the past?

B. Required Discussion Board assignment.

A developing field in psychology is called Positive Psychology, which is exploring ways to help people become happier and productive in life. Research the Internet to learn more about this type of psychology. Share what you learn with your classmates on the discussion board. Your discussion board post should contain the following:

• A description of the field of positive psychology
• Your critique of positive psychology
• What research suggests on the value of this developing field
• How you would apply what you have learned about positive psychology to enhance your happiness and positive outlook on life – ways to build a positive perspective and state of mind.

Respond to the posting of at least two other students. In your responses you can address your opinions on the field itself, and/or your plans to apply what you have learned. You may want to discuss with another student why they agree or disagree with the concepts of this field.

Be sure to document your references using APA format.

For assistance with your assignment, please use your text, Web resources, and all course materials. Please refer to the following multimedia course material(s)

• Week 3 – Understanding Human Behavior
• Week 3 – Emotion, Learning, and Motivation
• Week 3 – Experience Psychological Theory
• Week 3 – Motivational Theories
• Week 3 – Motivation Theories

In your own words, please post a response to the Discussion Board and comment on other postings. You will be graded on the quality of your postings.