EDC3003

Adolescent development

Dr R Sands

6 points - 3 hours per week - First semester - Clayton - Prerequisite: Completion of first two years of program

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should: be able to consider adolescent development from a disinterested, scientific viewpoint; know where to look for information on differing aspects of adolescents' development, whether from a biological, social, cultural or personal viewpoint; have developed an understanding of the significance of adolescence as a discrete period of individual development in our society; understand the developmental tasks of adolescence; be able to demonstrate knowledge of differing theories of adolescence; understand the biological processes of puberty; understand the aspects of cognitive development during adolescence that are of importance to teachers of adolescents; have developed an appreciation of the psychosexual changes during adolescence including those on self-concept, self-esteem, gender, ethnicity and identity; be aware of other issues including social demands, alienation, substance abuse and the need for vocational development.

Synopsis This subject provides a framework for students to look at adolescent development from a scientific research base. From a practical perspective, students will review and debate the merits of psychologically-based coping strategies as they relate to key issues in teaching adolescents. Students will consider different theories of adolescent development and its importance as a discrete period of development in Western society. The biological processes of puberty and psychosexual changes during adolescence will be previewed, as will changes in cognition and their importance to adolescents and their teachers. Students will consider differing cultural and familial contexts and their effects on young people. Consideration will also be given to aspects of vocational development and affects of adolescents' alienation, prospects of unemployment and substance abuse.

Assessment Written (2000 words): 40% - Examination (2 hours): 50% - Class presentation: 10%

Recommended texts

Dusek J B Adolescent development and behaviour 3rd edn, Prentice-Hall, 1997
Rice F P The adolescent: Development, relationship and culture 8th edn, Allyn and Bacon, 1996

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