PH 325

When game designer Jane McGonigal found herself bedridden and suicidal following a severe concussion, she had a fascinating idea for how to get better. She dove into scientific research and created the healing game, SuperBetter (www.superbetter.com), a desktop & mobile app game. Backed by science, this game is a choose your own adventure that builds resilience and improves mental health of the player. Over the course of the semester, students will immerse themselves in becoming superbetter. Through scientific research behind power-ups, recruiting allies, beating the bad guys and challenging themselves, students will explore the validity of these activities in increasing lifespan and improving individual health. Additionally, theoretical models for health promotion, prevention & intervention will be explored, focusing on community and population health. This course also addresses the selection of methods to evaluate public health promotion programs including qualitative approaches.