Postgraduate - UnitEDF4600 - Contemporary issues in developmental psychology

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Synopsis

This unit aims to increase student's understanding of human development across the lifespan through the study of biological, perceptual, cognitive, personality, social and emotional changes from infancy to adulthood. Deviations from normal development will be covered within the field of developmental psychopathology. The content of the unit will reflect the view that human behaviour throughout life is multiply determined by the interaction of both environmental and constitutional influences, and the context in which development occurs. Through student presentations and class discussion, students will be introduced to a number of current topics and contrasting developmental theories.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit students will have:

1. acquired knowledge of the contemporary research, theoretical and applied issues in developmental psychology;
2. developed the skills necessary to critically appraise the current developmental literature and theories;
3. gained an appreciation of the value of informed group discussion in evaluating psychological research and ideas; and
4. further develop their oral and written communication skills.

Assessment

Presentation of discussion paper (2,000 words equivalent): 35%, Essay related to discussion paper topic (2,000 words): 40%, Participation in class discussion (25%).

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Louise McLean

Contact hours

12 hrs per week (one 2 hr lecture per week)

Prerequisites

Successful completion of an Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) - accredited major sequence in psychology.

Prohibitions

PSY4512