Course content

This introductory course gives an overview of the problems, methods, and theories of psychology, with a special emphasis on human development. Central themes are foundational knowledge and theories dealing with various aspects of human development in childhood and adolescence. Topics covered include perception and cognition, communication and language, development of emotion, attachment, human relations, cultural and social psychology.

Learning outcome

Knowledge - The student has:

• basic knowledge about the central problems of psychology, its methods, and the most central theories
• basic knowledge concerning the most central theoretical perspectives in developmental psychology and an understanding of how these perspectives differ from each another
• knowledge about what research shows as the typical mode of functioning in children (cognitive, emotional and in relation to others)

Skills. The student can:

• discuss general psychological and developmental topics in a written form
• use and discuss concepts, topics, and theories in general psychology and human development

General competence: The student has:

• acquired an understanding of the relationship between general psychological knowledge, the various perspectives on human development, and general scientific knowledge on the development of children
• developed an understanding of the relevancy and significance of psychological knowledge for future professional practice.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, seminars, group work and self studies. Parts of the teaching may be given in English.

Compulsory assignments

• Written assignment

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

The course is reserved for students currently admitted to the programme "Bachelor in Social Work" or the programme "Bachelor of Child Care and Welfare" at NTNU.

Course materials

Will be published on Blackboard at the start of the course

Credit reductions