Course Description
A study of developmental trajectories, systems, timing, malleability, plasticity, and typical and atypical development. Developmental theory and its application across the lifespan for educators and psychologists. Focuses on biological, physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development during prenatal period, infancy, early childhood, adolescence, and adulthood in context.
Athena Title
Lifespan Ed and Psychologists
Semester Course Offered
Offered spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Identify the main concepts and theories of lifespan human development postulated by prominent developmental psychologists. Identify the determinants of physical, cognitive, and social/psychological human growth and development. Explain the role of nature and nurture at different developmental stages. Apply knowledge about developmental theory to applied contexts such as schools, families, and other learning contexts across the lifespan.
Topical Outline
1. Dynamic Systems Theory 2. Evolutionary Developmental Perspectives Across the Lifespan 3. Gene-Environment Interactions and Epigenetics 4. Toxic Stress, Early Experience, Executive Function 5. Development in the Context of Adversity 6. Attachment 7. Trajectories in Early and Middle Childhood: Parenting, Schooling, and Neighborhood Effects 8. The Role of the Family and Peers in Development 9. Bioecological and Cultural Influences on Human Development 10. Developmental Regulation in Adolescence 11. Lifespan Transitions: Continuity and Discontinuity 12. Adulthood 13. Aging
Syllabus