Module Catalogue 2025/26

Pre Requisite Comment

Having attended PSY1002, developmental lectures, is preferable but not essential. Advice on additional reading for those who have not taken PSY1002 will be detailed in lecture 1.

Co Requisite Comment

None

Aims

The module provides students with a thorough understanding of developmental psychology across several key domains, including perceptual, cognitive, and socioemotional changes throughout the lifespan. General aims of the module are:
1.       To provide students with a solid foundation of the theoretical views underpinning our understanding of human development.
2.       To encourage critical thinking regarding methodological approaches in developmental psychology, including the impact of the historical and cultural context.
3.       To help students recognise how psychological research can and should be used to optimise human development across the lifespan.

Outline Of Syllabus

Research methods and theoretical approaches in lifespan development
Perceptual development
Language development
Cognitive development and brain maturation
Social cognition
Emotional and moral development
Neurodiversity in development

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

1. Describe the processes of perceptual, social and cognitive development;
2. Discuss theories and research on perceptual, cognitive, social, emotional and moral development;
3. Critically evaluate approaches taken in the study of neurodiversity in development

Intended Skill Outcomes

At the end of this module the student will be able to:

1. Gather and synthesise information from a variety of sources;
2. Apply theoretical concepts;
3. Discuss relevant critical issues;
4. Critically evaluate arguments and evidence;
5. Use library and other information sources effectively;
6. Work independently;
7. Take responsibility for one’s own learning and intellectual development;
8. Manage time and schedule workloads effectively;
9. Use computing and IT resources;
10. Communicate effectively in writing.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lectures are used as the principle and most effective mode of imparting the core knowledge of the module. The question and answer sessions are used to impart and discuss knowledge and understanding. Workshops will help students to consolidate knowledge gained through lectures. These include two writing workshops designed to help students practice their academic writing skills, familiarise themselves with marking criteria and receive constructive feedback related to short answer question prep and general academic writing skills. The private study is essential for in-depth review of knowledge imparted through lecture materials.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The MCQs are used to assess breadth of knowledge and understanding of material. The SAQs are used to assess the ability to integrate across materials, to demonstrate critical thinking and originality, and to communicate these clearly and concisely.

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 Winter vacation. Coursework with submission dates after the Winter vacation will either be submitted at an earlier date or at the same time remotely. The assessment format will not normally vary from the original to ensure learning outcomes are met. Any changes to the original format must meet module learning outcomes and be approved by the school dates after the Christmas vacation will either be submitted at an earlier date or at the same time remotely.

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

General Notes

N/A