BSc Psychology

In this unit, we discover the developmental processes that have resulted in the unique individuals who are enrolled on this unit.

Students will be introduced to the study of development as a core discipline within psychology. The first thing we will do is to discuss why we should study development, and how we should study development—because we cannot necessarily ask young children questions or get their informed consent to take part in experiments, we have to be creative and think of new ways to investigate their understanding and capabilities.

From there, we move on to present prominent theories of development (e.g. Piaget, and Socio-cultural approaches) and why theories of how we develop are so important. In addition to these foundational topics, this unit also explores developmental processes and challenges associated with ageing and the end of life. These later-life stages are critical to understanding the human experience and provide insights into psychological, social, and emotional adaptations that occur across the lifespan. 

This unit aims to develop students' critical understanding of human development, focusing on the psychological processes and challenges that occur across the human life course, from infancy to late childhood, extending to key aspects of lifespan development, including ageing and death. Students will explore key theories, research, and practical applications related to developmental psychology, cultivating an appreciation of how these insights contribute to contemporary research and professional practice. By engaging with these topics, students will build the analytical and reflective skills necessary to evaluate and apply knowledge in diverse real-world and academic contexts whilst simultaneously fostering independent, active, and self-directed learning. 

The unit is delivered in 11 two-hour, large-group in-person sessions where students will delve into topics with activities such as videos, quizzes, Mentimeter interactive activities, group discussion, small group tasks, and also include some more “traditional” lecture delivery.

Lecture content, on-demand materials, supplementary reading, optional resources, and a monitored discussion board for students to ask questions will be available via the unit Canvas site.  

During the course, practice Multiple Choice Questions will be provided to enable students to test their knowledge of course content, helping to reinforce the learning of the material, and giving practice for the end of semester exam. 

• Explain the methodologies used to study child development and how research methods evolve to enhance understanding of children's capabilities, recognising the diversity of approaches in developmental psychology.
• Evaluate the role of cultural context in human development and its significance for understanding human behaviour.  
• Analyse the child as a social being, focusing on social and emotional development, attachment relationships, and their understanding of self within their environment.
• Analyse the biological bases of development, including the role of genetics and prenatal factors, and how these contribute to shaping behaviour and cognitive functions throughout life.  

• Explore the historical and conceptual roots of child development, and evaluate the process of theory development.  
• Evaluate cognitive development including perceptual and motor development in childhood and explain how this underpins successful adult behaviour.
• Employ, interrelate and compare different theoretical predictions and empirical findings in the field of development.  
• Analyse and apply multiple perspectives and theories of development, evaluating their usefulness for making novel predictions, with a focus on constructivist and socio-cognitive approaches.
• Evaluate commonly used methodology in developmental psychology.  

• Engage professionally and inclusively with others during group activities. 

Students will receive a grade for their final exam, and feedback will be available on request.  

There will be ongoing feedback in class, including from formative practice MCQs (weekly) for students to check their understanding.

Seigler, R., Saffran, J., Eisenberg, N., Gershoff, E., & Leaper, C. (2024). How Children Develop (7th international edition). New York: Worth