Developmental Psychology – PSYC 525
CG • Section 8WK • 11/08/2019 to 04/16/2020 • Modified 02/01/2024
Course Description
Advanced study of developmental processes across the lifespan. Examination of theories and current research in physical, mental, emotional, and social domains. Special consideration given to varying social situations and cultural contexts. (Crosslisted with MSPS 540)
For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.
Rationale
An understanding of developmental theory and research will serve as a foundation for the student’s subsequent coursework and research in developmental psychology. This course offers an opportunity for students to understand the complexities of human development across the lifespan such that their future work in any setting will reflect the best evidence-based developmental theory available in hopes of making maximum impact for Christ.
Course Assignment
Textbook readings and lecture presentations
Course Requirements Checklist
After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.
Video Discussions (3)
Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. The student will create a 3-minute video thread in response to the provided prompt for each Discussion. In addition to the thread, the student is required to respond to at least 1 other classmate’s thread with a 1-minute video reply. (CLO: A, C, D)
Article Critique Assignment
The student will locate an empirical study in a peer-reviewed journal and write a 4-page critique of the article, paying special attention to research methods and connection to developmental theory. (CLO: A, B)
Human Development Paper Assignment
The student will write a 4-page paper in current APA format that demonstrates critical thinking with respect to theories covered through Module 3: Week 3. The paper must include at least 5 citations of course readings. (CLO: A, B)
Midterm Essay Questions Assignment
The student will submit an open-book/open-note written assignment that consists of four essay questions. The aim of the assignment is to help the student master and synthesize the class material. The assignment must be submitted as a Word document with appropriate in-text citations and references. (CLO: A, B)
Developmental Research Paper Assignment
The student will write a 5-page paper in current APA format that evaluates a specific developmental issue across the lifespan using empirical research from at least 5 peer-reviewed journal articles. (CLO: A, C, E)
Developmental Psychology Presentation Assignment
The student will create a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation that applies research in developmental psychology to a practical problem during a specific stage in the lifespan. (CLO: A, C, E)
