Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2023 - PSYC 364 D100

The Science of Happiness (3)

Class Number: 2510

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 6 – Dec 5, 2023: Fri, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    PSYC 201, 260.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Examines the scientific study of happiness and well-being. Focuses on the measurement, predictors, and consequences of human happiness. Students with credit for PSYC 391 under the title "The Science of Happiness" may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

We will be exploring the emerging scientific study of happiness and well-being. The goal of this class is to introduce you to this burgeoning field of scientific study and provide you with an opportunity to try some research-supported routes to happiness.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

By the end of this course you should be able to,

1. Identify the three components of subjective well-being.

2. Name and describe the three factors contributing to chronic happiness levels.

3. List at least five research-supported routes to boosting happiness and cite specific experimental evidence to support each.

4. Describe how definitions of happiness and well-being vary across the life span and across cultures.

5. Discuss happiness related concepts and evidence with the public.

Grading

  • Participation: 20%
  • Writing Assignments: 50%
  • Term Paper/Project: 30%
  • Please note that this is a tentative breakdown

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

There is no textbook required for this course.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the semester are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.