Reflection Paper

The Reflection Paper supports the three learning outcomes for the course:

1. Analyze the components of positive psychology that contribute to the health and well-being of individuals, organizations, and environments.

2. Use critical thinking, skeptical inquiry, research methodologies, and appropriate instruments to analyze scientific evidence to differentiate positive psychology from other psychological approaches.

3. Evaluate positive psychology theories and theorists to determine appropriate and ethical applications and interventions within the individual as well as organizational and multicultural settings.

Objective:   Write a 4 to 5-page personal Reflection Paper that communicates how specific topics, theories, and research findings covered in the course 1) shape your understanding of positive psychology; and, 2) connect to your current knowledge, experiences, and areas of interest.

Instructions Summary:   The following guidance lists the key steps for the Reflection Paper.

1. Review the topics we have covered in class, to include those covered during the week this assignment is due.

2. Choose two to three* positive psychology topics, theories, or research studies covered within the applicable week’s content.

3. Reflect and identify personal relevance of the selected subjects.

4. Research using the UMGC Library.

5. Write and submit for grading a well composed, 4 to 5-page APA style formatted Reflection Paper.

*This is a minimum target, not a finite value.  To maximize the benefits of this assignment, focus on a range of subjects that capture your attention. It is appropriate to discuss and integrate related topics. For example, in a discussion of “hope,” the inclusion of theory (e.g., Snyder, 2002), details extracted from course Learning Resources, and research findings pulled from peer-reviewed articles, can create topic depth. Incorporating relevant points that address linkages to the construct, optimism, can demonstrate breadth of understanding. The related points, when constructively used to compare, contrast, and synthesized your understanding of hope, builds out a thoughtfully elaborated presentation on the topic.

Rubric:  The following informs on the distribution of points assigned to each section of the paper.  The Reflection Paper will be graded on the following areas:

Reflection Paper Point Allocations

(Please reference the rubric accompanying this assignment for in-depth scoring details.)