Details for Childhood and Adolescent Development

Focusing on childhood and adolescence, this subject examines human development. Pre-service teachers will study the physical, cognitive, moral, emotional and social aspects of childhood and adolescent development, factors that influence development and implications for educational practice. The role of family and cultural child rearing practices, as well as the impact of social policy on these for schooling will be examined.

Awards offering Childhood and Adolescent Development

This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:

• Associate Degree in Education Studies
• Bachelor of Arts (Education Studies)
• Bachelor of Education (Primary)
• Diploma of Arts
• Diploma of Education Studies

Unit Content

Curriculum Objective

Focusing on childhood and adolescence, this subject examines human development. Pre-service teachers will study the physical, cognitive, moral, emotional and social aspects of childhood and adolescent development, factors that influence development and implications for educational practice. The role of family and cultural child rearing practices, as well as the impact of social policy on these for schooling will be examined.

Outcomes

1. Identify and discuss the significant factors that contribute to or impact a child’s optimal emotional, mental, spiritual and physical wellbeing; how is well-being fostered within Christian and alternate school contexts;
2. Interpret the major developmental and psychosocial issues experienced by children and adolescents, including emotional health, identity formation, peer and family relationships, and factors that positively and adversely affect development;
3. Analyse problems encountered by children and adolescents in contemporary society and discuss approaches to working with those facing these problems;
4. Demonstrate the importance of childhood and adolescent development for targeted educational strategies from Christian and alternate worldviews;

Subject Content

1. History of child development – Freud and other perspectives;
2. Erikson’s theory of development – Piaget/Kohlberg’s theory of development;
3. Puberty: The biological eruption; brain development;
4. Emerging sexuality;
5. Stages of physical and cognitive development and factors that shape and influence this development, including diet and lifestyle;
6. Psychosocial development: the stages of development, the development of prosocial behaviours, strategies to encourage self-regulation behaviours in the classroom and playground and ways to address bullying;
7. Development of identity and self-concept: self-efficacy, resilience, self-esteem, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and the teacher’s use of developmental knowledge.

This course may be offered in the following formats

• Face-to-Face
• Intensive
• Distance/ Global Online

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

1. Minor Essay (30%)
2. Critical Reflection (30%)
3. Major Project (40%)

Prescribed Text

• References will include the most current curriculum requirements for schools.

Check with the instructor each semester before purchasing any prescribed texts or representative references