The landscape of education at M. Suan Dusit University is undergoing a transformative shift as it embraces a new teaching approach within its General Education (GenEd) curriculum. Under the guidance of Dr. Sukhum Chaloeithiraphat, the chair of the university's academic advisory board, the university has successfully integrated a revised model for teaching a course centered on the 'Value of Happiness' aimed at enhancing students' learning experiences and personal development.
This innovative curriculum focuses on experiential learning, pushing students beyond the confines of traditional classroom settings. The objective is simple yet profound: to help students discover and cultivate their own happiness, thereby enabling deeper connections between students and faculty. In a bid to improve educational engagement, the redesign encourages instructors to adapt their teaching methodologies and develop appealing activities that draw students into the learning process.
The initiative leans heavily on real-world experiences and practical engagement with experts in various fields, aiming to nurture students' creativity and ability to apply their learning in real life. Renowned speakers such as the motivational individual Na Nek - Ketsuepsawat, and chef In-Gam-In, among others, are brought in to inspire and guide students in their quest for happiness, positioning practical workshops alongside traditional lectures.
Feedback from students participating in this redefined course structure has been overwhelmingly positive. Thanyaporn Sophawat, a first-year student in Industrial Psychology at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, expressed her enthusiasm saying, "This new teaching format has eliminated the usual boredom associated with classes. Instead, I find myself happy every time I attend, particularly during engaging activities such as 'Social Media Love... True Love or Illusion?' which not only encouraged teamwork but fostered a spirit of camaraderie and collaboration among peers."
Similarly, Rawisara Khonton, also a first-year student, remarked on how the course brought great relief amidst the stress of complex subjects she encounters in her other classes. “This new approach truly feels like a form of therapy for me,” she shared, emphasizing how activities like ‘Self-Discovery’ have allowed her to express herself and delve into her passions, finding happiness in the process.
Khun Phon, a fellow student in Environmental Health and Disaster Management, echoed these sentiments. He stated that the 'Value of Happiness' course has opened up opportunities to exchange ideas and perspectives with students from different faculties, which he viewed as an invaluable experience. He particularly enjoyed the 'Switch Game' activity, which he noted helped sharpen analytical thinking and adaptability—a skill set pertinent to real-life challenges.
Adding her voice, Pradubdao Duangphimphorn (Oae), a second-year English major, appreciated the opportunity for students who initially missed enrollment in the course. She articulated how inviting notable speakers has enriched their learning experience significantly. “This course isn't just enjoyable; it's genuinely enriching,” she declared, emphasizing that the insights gained from speakers spur deep reflection on individual happiness. “This broader perspective on happiness has motivated me to re-enroll next term,” she concluded enthusiastically.
The overarching success of this new curriculum approach, beginning with the 'Value of Happiness' course, underscores an important shift in educational methods to better serve the current digital-savvy students. As the educational landscape adapts to the fast-paced world, institutions must recalibrate teaching paradigms to cultivate critical skills for the 21st century alongside a nurturing learning environment that promotes personal well-being.
The process of transitioning from conventional lecture-based models to experiential learning forms not only enhances the overall educational quality but also supports the development of graduates that embody happiness and resilience, with the ability to tackle modern challenges effectively. M. Suan Dusit University is setting a precedent in educational innovation, demonstrating that learning can be both meaningful and enjoyable.
