Course content

This course provides an introduction into how an individual develops through childhood and adolescence. The course covers the core aspects of psychological development, such as perception and cognition, communication and language, emotional development, attachment, friendship and play. The course also provides an overview of how the brain develops.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

· The student has broad knowledge of the core, theoretical perspectives within the field of developmental psychology, and how these perspectives differ.

· The student is familiar with what research shows regarding how children function; cognitively, emotionally and socially.

· The student is familiar with the core methods used in psychological research involving children and adolescents.

Skills

· The student can outline the core themes of developmental psychology.

· The student can apply the central concepts used in developmental psychology and critically discuss the core theoretical perspectives.

General competence

· The student has developed an understanding of the relationship between theoretical perspectives regarding development and empirical knowledge about childhood development.

· The student has developed an understanding of how a child’s individual development takes place within a social and cultural context.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures 2 hours per week, study group.

Limited admission to classes.

Exam registration requires that class registration is approved in the same semester.

Compulsory assignments

• Written assignement

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

None.

Required previous knowledge

None

Course materials

To be announced when semester starts.

Credit reductions