Abstract:

This paper reports the results of a trial implementation of the Flourish in a Second Language (FL2) project in units of Spanish as a second language in Australian universities.

FL2 is an innovative approach to L2 teaching and learning consisting of specifically devised resources embedded in L2 courses.

The study expands on a previous project in Italian units which led to the publication of: Flourishing in a Second Language (FL2). Integrating Positive Psychology, Transition Pedagogy and CLIL principles, written by Strambi, Luzeckyj and Rubino in 2017.

The positive psychology, transition pedagogy and CLIL-based resources were translated into Spanish and implemented in 3 cohorts in 2 Australian Universities: Flinders University and The University of Western Australia.

Results of this trial were then compared to the previous Italian case study. We found that in both case studies, embedding wellbeing supporting activities in the L2 curriculum yields important benefits for our learners. Student evaluations of the project were overwhelmingly positive.

Keywords:

Second language acquisition, Spanish Language, Italian Language, Positive Psychology.