Preprint
The Happiness Project: Using a CDC Framework for Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Student Transition and Retention Program
Social Science Research Network (SSRN), Vol.Series Paper No.12
Southern Cross University Scholarship of Learning and Teaching Research Paper Series, Elsevier
18/09/2023
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Abstract
This paper uses a CDC framework for program evaluation to report and reflect on a pilot project conducted for undergraduate university students at a regional Australian university. The project aimed to develop and implement an eight-week support program for first year students from disadvantaged backgrounds, which targeted student social and institutional connectivity, resilience and wellbeing. The project drew strongly on a ‘whole of person’ approach (Nelson et al., 2009, p. 754) and was underpinned by the positive psychology work of Seligman (2011). The program was piloted with six participating students who met as a group, once a week for a 60-90 minute facilitated sessions. Students identified a significant increase in positive aspects (e.g., happiness, engagement, relationships, health) and decreases in negative aspects (e.g., loneliness, negative thinking). Student feedback contributed to the program. Overall, the CDC framework indicates the project was highly successful and positively influenced the students’ wellbeing and happiness.
Details
- Title
- The Happiness Project: Using a CDC Framework for Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Student Transition and Retention Program
- Creators
- Mieke Witsel (Author) - Southern Cross UniversityKevin Markwell (Author) - Southern Cross University
- Publication Details
- Social Science Research Network (SSRN), Vol.Series Paper No.12
- Series
- Southern Cross University Scholarship of Learning and Teaching Research Paper Series
- Publisher
- Elsevier
- Number of pages
- 24
- Identifiers
- 991013139412102368
- Academic Unit
- Centre for Teaching and Learning; Faculty of Business, Law and Arts
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Preprint
- Local Fields
- Original Research - SoLT