Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
6 points + 10 hours per week for 6 weeks + First semester + Peninsula
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the major theories in the field of child development; all three areas of development - physical, cognitive and psychosocial, outlining the major characteristics of, and influences on, these three aspects of child development. Students should also be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of current learning theories; an ability to apply the above information to their teaching practices; a thorough understanding of motivation, the individual learner and the learning environment; a thorough knowledge of the principles of modern classroom management and communication; a thorough knowledge of the principles and strategies of effective teaching. Students should have developed skills which will enable them to outline methods for encouraging positive behaviour and controlling negative behaviours in school situations; outline methods for optimising children's memory; help children become strategic learners; help children problem solve; develop strategies to increase children's motivation; develop skills and strategies for classroom management; develop appropriate skills for planning and teaching.
Synopsis This subject aims (a) to familiarise prospective teachers at the primary level with the processes involved in a child's development from conception through to adolescence; (b) to provide a comprehensive introduction to the field of educational psychology; (c) to offer comprehensive up-to-date coverage of relevant theory, research and practice in the area of child development and learning.
Assessment Examination: 100%