Developmental Psychology 2500-EN_O_31
The course is designed as an introduction to key concepts, theories and empirical approaches to the study of human development across the entire life span. Diverse theoretical models of development and developmental change will be delineated. Complex interplay of biological and environmental factors in which developmental processes are embedded will be discussed with reference to transactional, ecological and dynamic systems approaches. Age-related regularities and specificities as well as inter-individual differences in global and domain specific developmental phenomena will be outlined on the basis of classic as well as contemporary studies. The overarching theme will be the role of social interactions, relationships and culture in human development. We will also discuss implications of the life span developmental research for clinical and educational practices. Although the course employs primarily a lecture format, students will be encouraged to share their comments and ideas with the group, as well as to complete a few practical tasks.
Type of course
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of major theoretical perspectives in the field of developmental psychology;
• Compare and contrast major theories of human development as well as describe their limitations
• Describe methods and findings of developmental science across the life span
• Identify and analyze the biological foundations of human development
• Analyze the role of culture in human development across the life span
• Define and analyze key concepts and phenomena in social, emotional and cognitive development across the life span
• Critically evaluate the results of developmental studies
• Show awareness of ethical issues related to research with children as participants
Assessment criteria
Requirements:
Exam - 70% - multiple choice, 40 items
Assignments - 30% (2 x 15%)
• observation task (Grazyna Kmita)
• critical analysis of a scientific paper (Maya Gratier)
Attendance - obligatory and strongly recommended (two absences allowed).
Additional information
Information on level of this course, year of study and semester when the course unit is delivered, types and amount of class hours - can be found in course structure diagrams of apropriate study programmes. This course is related to the following study programmes:
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: