DCP0002 - Normal developmental observation

Leader: Ms Jenny Carver

Offered

Clayton First semester 2008 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit will explore the history, theory and principles of Developmental Observation and its relevance to clinical and consultative work with children and adolescents. There will be a consideration of the nature of the links between observation and the developmental theories. Students will be able to explore these areas both through the context of the course work and prescribed observations of children in their naturalistic settings.

Objectives

This unit is designed to give students an understanding of the history, theories and principles of developmental observation and its relevance to clinical work with children and adolescents. On completion of this unit the student will be expected to:

1. have an understanding and knowledge of the history, theory and principles of Developmental Observation;
2. recognise the relevance that observation skills have to the understanding of children and adolescents and therapeutic and consultative work;
3. understand the nature of links between observation and the developmental theories; and
4. have an appreciation of how to recognise and understand their own responses to what is observed and the use of these in their work.

Assessment

Integrated tutorials
Regular written assignments
Final written assignment
Interactive assessment via a residential workshop
Threaded discussion groups