Final answer:
Applying positive psychology constructs like Positive Reinforcement and Character Strengths can make students happier and more productive by promoting engagement and nurturing individual talents. Yet, these approaches have limitations and may involve additional costs and resources.
Step-by-step explanation:
To set up schools to make students happier and more productive using positive psychology constructs, one could apply the principles of Positive Reinforcement and Character Strengths. Positive Reinforcement involves encouraging desirable behaviors through rewards and recognition, potentially enhancing students' engagement and motivation. Implementing systems such as praising good work, offering privileges for consistent performance, or even material rewards can be used. However, this approach may lead to students expecting rewards for all their efforts, which can be both costly and may diminish intrinsic motivation.
Character Strengths focus on identifying and nurturing individual students' unique talents and virtues. Education systems that emphasize students' strengths may foster a more supportive and enriching learning environment. Programs might include strength-based assignments, or creating roles within the classroom that allow students to use their talents. The limits of this approach include the potential for overlooking areas in need of improvement and the additional resources required for teachers to tailor education to individual strengths.
Addressing positive externalities in education, akin to those in technology, governments could consider policies such as subsidizing education, investing in teacher training, providing school choice through vouchers, and rewarding schools that excel. These actions recognize the broad societal benefits of a well-educated population, from economic growth to social cohesion.