Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

To introduce students to the broad aims and methods of developmental psychological research. In the process of doing this, students are introduced to the major research methods and theories in developmental psychology, covering core topics.

Outline Of Syllabus

This module provides an introduction to a core area of Psychology - Developmental psychological research and theory. In the module, content covers prenatal development, perceptual and motor development during infancy, and some of the most influential theories of child cognitive development; including Piaget and Vygotsky. An introduction is also given to neurodiversity and to the transition from childhood to adolescence, adulthood and old age. We take a lifespan perspective of developmental psychology to encompass both childhood and the ageing process. The content also includes cultural influences on development, encouraging a broader understanding of factors affecting childhood development.



The aim of the course is to provide a foundation for modules in future years of the degree. Indicative content that the sessions may cover:

Prenatal development
Main research methods in developmental psychology Perceptual development
Motor development
Socio-Emotional Development
Cognitive development: Piaget and Vygotsky Lifespan Development: Considering age-related challenges

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

At the end of the module students will be able to:

Describe a range of developmental psychological research methods
Discuss the various research questions and aims that drive developmental and psychological research
Explain the major dilemmas in explaining development: from infancy to older age
Describe and evaluate influential developmental theories of Piaget and Vygotsky
To be aware of cultural influences on development and the cultural biases implicit in research.
Be able to apply knowledge in a group-work task

Intended Skill Outcomes

Development of skills and insight into processes involved in accurately interpreting the results of developmental psychological experiments, as well as the steps involved in constructing suitable experimental designs for examining particular research questions. Improved observational skills and analysis of human developmental behaviour.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures will provide the framework for introducing core concepts in developmental psychology. During the session, students will be encouraged to interact with each other through the use of discussion exercises and short tasks.
Video footage of studies will be used to show research in practice and to demonstrate theoretical aspects. There will be Question and Answer sessions related to the lecture materials. There will be hand-outs which are to be completed both during the session and in their own time. These will help to provide a revision aid for students.
Lectures will include PowerPoint presentation and oral commentary. Private and self-study, using the recommended text will provide further depth of understanding.

MCQ questions set at the end/beginning of lectures will provide students the opportunity for formative practice of knowledge learning outcomes.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The Digital exam will involve students answering a series of multiple choice questions. At the introductory level of developmental, it is essential for students to have a broad knowledge base upon which they develop deeper insight and understanding of psychological research in the subsequent stages of the degree. The exam has therefore been designed to assess students for their breadth of understanding of the course material, but also a certain level of depth.

FMS Schools offering Semester One modules available as ‘Study Abroad’ will, where required, provide an alternative assessment time for examinations that take place after the Christmas vacation. Coursework with submissions dates after the Christmas vacation will either be submitted at an earlier date or at the same time remotely.

If the module is failed students will resit failed assessments in the same format during the August resit period.

General Notes

N/A