Developmental Psychology (PSY 260)
Summer 2005

Course Description: Surveys research and theory on human life-span development. Students study social, cognitive, emotional, and physical aspects of development from conception to death. Prerequisites: PSY 211
I have three goals for this course: (1) to introduce you to some of the major theories and research in the field of developmental psychology; (2) to engage you in a critical analysis of these theories and research; (3) to discuss the implications of these theories and research for improving the lives of people of all ages. I will be asking you to not only learn a large amount of new information, but also to analyze and interpret what you learn. It is necessary then, for you to actively participate in learning through reading, discussion, and writing.

Requirements:
Reading: Lifespan Human Development, 5th ed., Carol Sigelman & Elizabeth Rider.

Tests: There will be 3 tests, each covering one third of the course material, and based on the lectures, readings, films, and discussions. The tests will consist of fill-in, matching, and short answer type questions. You have received a study guide for each test which tells you what material is going to be covered on the test. You will be allowed to brin in an 8 1/2" by 11" page of notes to assist you during the test. Each test is worth up to 50 points toward your final grade.

Projects: There will be 3 two-page take-home projects. These projects will help you apply what you learn in class to your life. Each project is worth up to 10 points toward your final grade. You will receive full credit if you demonstrate accurate understanding and thoughtful consideration of the material.

Class Participation: It makes a difference when you are absent, so please make every effort to attend class and notify me if you are going to be absent. It is also important that you join in class discussions -- please share your thinking with us.

Extra Credit: You can earn 5 points of extra credit by writing a one-page paper on any one of the critical thinking questions at the end of an assigned chapter. You can only write ONE paper on ONE question, but it can be any question as long as it comes from an assigned chapter. The paper can be turned in at any time up to the day of the final exam.

Final Grade Totals:
          A      180-162          B      161-144           C      143-126          D      125-108           E      Below 108

Schedule:
Topic I: Core Concepts
6/7
Basic Issues in the Study of Human Development
Read: pp. 1-10 & Chap. 3

6/9
Prenatal Development and Phsycial Development in Infancy and Childhood
Read: Chap. 4 & Chap. 5

Topic II: Development of Basic Human Capacities
6/14
Physical Development in Adulthood and Cognitive Development in Infancy, Childhood and Adolescence
Read: Chap. 5 & 7
Project #1 due

6/16
Cognition in Adulthood
Read: Chap. 7 & 9
Exam #1

6/21
Language Development and Personality Development in Infancy, Childhood and Adolescence
Read: Chap. 10 & 11

Topic III: Development of Self in Society
6/23
Personality Development in Adulthood
Read: Chap. 11
Project #2

6/28
Moral Development
Read: Chap. 13
Exam #2

6/30
Attachment and Social Relationships
Read: Chap. 14

7/5
The Family
Read: Chap. 15
Project #3 due

Topic IV: Conclusions
7/7
Death Across the Lifespan and Wrap-Up of Course
Read: Chap. 17 & Epilogue
Exam #3

cforden@clarion.edu

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