Human development 180

about the Course

• Course Statement: This course introduces the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of humans within their ecological niches. Differing disciplines (Anthropology, Biology, Psychology, and Sociology) and their corresponding worldviews will be used to compare and contrast developmental milestones, processes, and issues from conception to death.

• Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the biological, psychological, social and cultural influences of
   lifespan human development;

2. Demonstrate an understanding of how gender, ethnicity, class, historical period, and social location
   relate to the life course experience;

3. Critically evaluate research relevant to human development as well as popular notions of human nature;

4. Identify the major physical, cognitive, and social changes that characterize and contribute to human development from conception to death;

5. Identify the major differences and similarities among the major theoretical frameworks for the study of human development;

6. Critically evaluate and explain major strengths and weaknesses of these theoretical approaches through a familiarity with the methods of different disciplines;

7. Identify important factors that contribute to healthy human development (e.g., strong social support networks, quality health care, quality education, satisfying employment) and explain in practical terms how healthy development can be fostered and reinforced in a variety of sociocultural settings;

8. Explore a topic in depth, transfer knowledge to their own experiences in development, and reflect on those prior experiences.