Participants explore human development from prenatal stages through middle childhood and study the interrelationships among social, emotional, physical and cognitive development, with a focus on the role of play in early childhood. Using observational techniques, the class identifies developmentally appropriate characteristics and activities.

Skills Needed

• To be successful in this class all students should have working knowledge of Google’s G Suite or Microsoft Office, proper email etiquette, and essential understanding of Canvas.

Learning Outcomes

At the conclusion of the course, you should be able to

• Describe the influence of various social contexts on development including family, school, childcare, the media, and culture
• Discuss some views consistent with current knowledge and research in child development, based upon several current issues in child development
• Observe, record, analyze and compare children’s behavior and relate it to course materials on development
• Identify the major milestones in child development from birth through adolescence in social, emotional, cognitive and physical development

Topics Include

• Examining the relationships of the child to their family, community, and culture.
• Learning about expected behavior and growth patterns of infants through adolescence.
• To study the social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development of the child from conception through adolescence.
• Observing, recording, analyzing and comparing children’s behavior and relating it to course materials on development.
• Recognize and appraise the influence of various social contexts on development including family, school, childcare, the media, and culture.
• Examine the significance of various statuses and characteristics such as gender, disabilities and socioeconomic status on children’s development.

Notes

Students must bring the required textbook to the first class meeting.