Course Details in 2025/26 Session


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Module Title LM Theories of Character, Virtue and Flourishing
SchoolSchool of Education
Department Education & Social Justice
Module Code 11 28595
Module Lead For module leader queries, please contact soe-quality@contacts.bham.ac.uk
Level Masters Level
Credits 20
Semester Semester 1
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions None
Exclusions
Description This module examines the key theories of character, virtue and human flourishing. Within the module, students will consider various theories from the fields of psychology, philosophy and education. Students will consider how these theories impact their professional practice in particular how they inform planning, administration and policy. Throughout the module current problems and/or new insights in the field will be examined and critically debated.

The main topics covered are:
  • The concept of character in philosophy and psychology
  • The Aristotelian/character education tradition of looking at character and virtues
  • The positive psychological approach to character strengths and virtues
  • Empirical research about the intrinsic and instrumental value of character strengths in education
  • Hedonic, life-satisfaction and eudaimonic theories of well-being
  • Positive psychology on well-being and happiness
  • Empirical research on flourishing and classroom practice
Learning Outcomes By the end of the module students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate a critical understanding of the Aristotelian character education tradition of looking at character and virtues.
  • Understand and have a practical command of a positive psychological approach to character strengths and virtues.
  • Understand and be able to explain empirical research on the intrinsic and instrumental value of character strengths in education.
  • Understand and be informed about hedonic, life-satisfaction and eudaimonic theories of well-being.
  • Critically reflect on the role of character and virtue in their professional/personal context.
  • Be able to suggest approaches to reflection on flourishing and classroom practice.
Assessment 28595-01 : 1500 Word Reflection : Coursework (50%)
28595-04 : 2000 Word Essay : Coursework (50%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions Assessments:

1 x 1500-word reflection (50%)
1 x 2000-word essay (50%)

Reassessment:

Re-submission of failed component.
Other None
Reading List