Change and Development Lifespan

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1.  Describe major milestones in the development of the individual, including

• Biosocial development from conception to death
• Physical development from conception to death
• Cognitive development from birth to death
• Psychosocial development across the lifespan
• Neurobiological development

2.   Describe concepts from the major theories of human development

• Identify the similarities and differences of these concepts in how they view individual development
• Apply developmental theories to research findings and current social policies and practice
• Critically analyze the strengths and limitations of these theories from an ethical stance while working with people
• Critically analyze the development of these theories in relation to larger issues in society such as ethnicity, gender, contextual and cultural factors

3.  Critically explore how Lifespan development theory may be applied to

• Personal development
• Development of another individual
• Ecological and systemic development of families, groups and communities

4. Describe how diversity impacts all realms of development

• Identify personal biases in considering the development of diverse populations
• Explore the practice implications of adopting an inclusive stance

5. Describe the impacts of trauma and other risk factors on development across the lifespan

• Critically analyze the impact of poverty, abuse, discrimination and other forms of trauma
• Identify the role of neuroplasticity in response to traumatic events across the lifespan
• Explore the relationship between factors of risk and resiliency

6.  Describe various research methods used in lifespan development such as

• Research methodology
• Data collection methods
• Surveys, interviews, case studies
• Experimental methodology