EDF3003 - Adolescent development

Leader: Dr H Watt (Clayton)

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit provides a framework for students to understand adolescent development from a theoretical and scientific base, and to apply their knowledge at a practical level. The biological, psychological, social, sexual, and cognitive aspects of adolescent development are considered, together with the cultural and familial contexts for development. Specific attention is paid to the relationship between these aspects of adolescent development and the implications for working with adolescents in the school setting. Particular foci include school attendance problems, bullying, depression and suicide, learning difficulties, and career choices.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit, 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.

Assessment

Written Assignment(2000 words): 40%
Examination (2 hours): 50%
Weekly contribution: 10%

Contact hours

2 hours per week

Prerequisites

EDF1301 or EDF1303; and EDF1302 or EDF1304