Insights from positive education interventions with large effect sizes: A Systematic Review

Positive education integrates well-being science into educational contexts to promote flourishing alongside academic achievement. Using the exemplar method, this systematic review of 81 studies across eight meta-analyses and reviews identified six promising positive education interventions based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that demonstrated outcomes with large effect sizes. The review also assessed methodological rigor using Cochrane’s Risk of Bias 2 (ROB2) tool. These interventions demonstrated significant positive effects on well-being, social-emotional skills, and academic performance. Common features of successful interventions included embedded curricula, age-appropriate content, trained facilitators, and parental involvement. Structured engagement, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and social support further contributed to sustained benefits. This review provides a foundation for designing effective positive education programs, offering theoretical insights, practical recommendations, and directions for future positive education research. By addressing methodological gaps and scaling proven strategies, this work aims to enhance student well-being and optimize educational outcomes.