PS931-7-AU-CO:
Advanced Developmental Psychology
2022/23
Psychology
Colchester Campus
Autumn
Postgraduate: Level 7
Current
Thursday 06 October 2022
Friday 16 December 2022
15
14 October 2022
Requisites for this module
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)
MSC C80012 Psychology,
MSC C800JS Psychology
The module provides an introduction to the main theories of developmental psychology with a specific focus on Piaget's theory of development, followed by a topical approach that combines theories and research on prenatal development, early sensorimotor development, cognitive and social development, as well as patterns of behaviour in typical and atypical development. Classical and contemporary theoretical views of child development are contrasted, highlighting key issues and current controversies for each topic. The module also examines methods of research in developmental psychology, and provides an overview of the key ethical issues that surround research with vulnerable populations.
The module aims to provide an overview of psychology across the lifespan, with a focus on classical and contemporary theoretical views of child development, whilst highlighting the importance of appropriate research methods and designs. This approach will familiarise students with classic and up-to-date research, and encourage them to carry out independent research of scientific papers. In addition, this approach will facilitate the identification and description of mechanisms underlying changes that infants and children typically undergo in specific areas of development.
As part of the module’s assessment, students will analyse research data on children’s drawing using tools and methods learned about in class. In addition, they will write an essay that will test their understanding of Piaget’s theory of development in light of more contemporary theoretical views and research on child development. The specific learning outcomes are as follows:
1. Apply research methods learned about in class to analyse and report developmental data.
2. Acquire an understanding of key theoretical issues and concepts in developmental psychology.
3. Develop critical thinking skills in evaluating the relative strengths of methodological approaches and theoretical accounts of developmental psychology.
4. Communicate ideas effectively by producing written empirical reports and essays.
Learning outcome 1, 2, 3, and 4 will be assessed by the lab report coursework and learning outcomes 2, 3, and 4 will be assessed by the essay coursework.
Lectures start on the hour. There will be a short break halfway through the class. Please ask questions during class if there is anything that is unclear. You will be expected to participate in classroom activities designed to support your learning
The module consists of 10 sessions each lasting 2 hours. The module also includes three tutorials that will focus on the two pieces of coursework. During tutorials, we will discuss issues and points raised in the lecture and student participation will be encouraged. This may include discussion groups and online discussion forums (e.g. Moodle forums). This module will be taught by blended learning. This will combine online material and face-to-face sessions where appropriate.
This module does not appear to have a published bibliography for this year.
Assessment items, weightings and deadlines
| Coursework / exam |
Description |
Deadline |
Coursework weighting |
| Coursework |
Lab Report |
|
25% |
| Coursework |
Essay |
|
75% |
Exam format definitions
- Remote, open book: Your exam will take place remotely via an online learning platform. You may refer to any physical or electronic materials during the exam.
- In-person, open book: Your exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer to any physical materials such as paper study notes or a textbook during the exam. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
- In-person, open book (restricted): The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer only to specific physical materials such as a named textbook during the exam. Permitted materials will be specified by your department. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
- In-person, closed book: The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may not refer to any physical materials or electronic devices during the exam. There may be times when a paper dictionary,
for example, may be permitted in an otherwise closed book exam. Any exceptions will be specified by your department.
Your department will provide further guidance before your exams.
Overall assessment
Reassessment
Module supervisor and teaching staff
Dr Andrew Simpson, email: asimpson@essex.ac.uk.
Dr Andrew Simpson, Dr Luke Holmes, Dr Megan Klabunde
asimpson@essex.ac.uk
No
No
No
Dr Thomas Hunt
University of Derby
Senior Lecturer in Psychology
Available via Moodle
Of 34 hours, 28 (82.4%) hours available to students:
0 hours not recorded due to service coverage or fault;
6 hours not recorded due to opt-out by lecturer(s), module, or event type.
Psychology
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