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Social Science
PSY 215 - Developmental Psychology
Outcomes for PSY 215W: Developmental Psychology
(A Writing-In-Context Course for Lifespan Development)
- Articulate the philosophical bases for the major approaches to psychological inquiry (e.g., behavioral, cognitive, physiological) as they relate to developmental psychology.
- Label and explain the steps of the scientific method, including control conditions, quantifiable dependent measures, identification of independent variables with operational definitions, sampling techniques, subject selection and assignment, and basic procedures. Apply these steps to the main varieties of empirical methodology in the investigation of the developmental processes that contribute to behavior throughout the lifespan.
- Synthesize and critically evaluate information from various sources, including text, lecture, visual media, original research articles and review articles as they apply to developmental processes.
- Analyze the interactions of genetics, cytoplasmic processes, prenatal conditions, perinatal events, parenting styles, societal practices and cultural approaches as they influence an individual's phenotype, both behavioral and physical.
- Present the stages of development observed during the prenatal period. Critically assess the evidence derived from twin-studies and other research techniques regarding the nature-nurture dichotomy. Also, present the evidence for events that will interrupt normal developmental outcomes during this time frame (e.g., teratogens).
- Describe the developmental stages, including cognitive, social and physical, that occur during infancy. Compare the major theoretical explanations for the importance of this time period in determining later behavior, with consideration of plasticity versus stability.
- Describe the developmental stages, including cognitive, social and physical, that occur during early childhood. Compare the major theoretical explanations for the importance of this time period in determining later behavior, with consideration of plasticity versus stability.
- Present the hallmarks of cognitive, social and physical development in middle childhood. Compare the major theoretical explanations for the importance of this time period in determining later behavior, with consideration of plasticity versus stability.
- Describe the developmental stages, including cognitive, social and physical, that occur during adolescence. Compare the major theoretical explanations for the importance of this time period in determining later behavior, with consideration of plasticity versus stability. Include analyses of cohort effects and potential modifications for existing theories of developmental outcomes.
- Describe the developmental stages, including cognitive, social and physical, that occur during early adulthood. Compare the major theoretical explanations for the importance of this time period in determining later behavior, with consideration of plasticity versus stability. Include analyses of cohort effects and potential modifications for existing theories of developmental outcomes.
- Identify the different sources of stressors related to life changes typically encountered and analyze the potential effects of adjustment strategies for the physical and psychological health of young, middle and older adults. Discuss these issues in terms of impact on behavior as well.
- Describe the developmental stages, including cognitive, social and physical, that occur during middle adulthood. Compare the major theoretical explanations for the importance of this time period in determining later behavior, with consideration of plasticity versus stability. Include analyses of cohort effects and potential modifications for existing theories of developmental outcomes.
- Describe the developmental stages, including cognitive, social and physical, that occur during late adulthood. Compare the major theoretical explanations for the importance of this time period in determining adjustment to life changes such as retirement and widowhood. Include analyses of cohort effects and potential modifications for existing theories of developmental outcomes.
- Summarize the research regarding the social, cultural and political topics surrounding death. Articulate the arguments for various controversial issues in a balanced manner that is empirically supported, rather than showing a reliance on opinions only.
- Apply the principals of developmental theories, including characteristic behaviors, stages and outcomes, to a real-life setting, through observation and/or direct interaction with age appropriate subjects.
Measurements for PSY 215W: Developmental Psychology (Lifespan)
Students will demonstrate their knowledge in these areas through:
- formal examinations, which include objective questions, short answers, and organized essays;
- observation, interaction, experimentation and/or interviews with target populations;
- formal written assignments presenting results, critical evaluation of applied theories and synthesis of ideas through use of an approved format;
- articulation of ideas and concepts through verbal class participation; and
- exposure to assessment tools through active participation, with evaluation and understanding of the rationale expressed through formal written examination. All of the above written components require competence in grammatical construction and organization of ideas to convey complex concepts in a coherent way.
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