This module will start with surveying the historical and socio-cultural contexts of development and how they influence theories of development. Subsequently, students will be asked to research (independently or in groups) issues around one specific context influencing development (including culture, home, school, government and non-government initiatives for children and relating these to relevant developmental theories and research. Students will be expected to search and evaluate relevant websites related to their chosen topic using standard evaluation criteria.

11 Lectures (1 hour) - 11 hours - to introduce key concepts and develop web evaluation skills and the ability to extract and use relevant information.
10 Workshops (1 hour) - 10 hours - skills developed will include critical evaluation and communicating ideas.
One two hour drop-in session for workbook advice.
Guided Independent Reading - 40 hours - including research, using library and web facilities, into specified topic areas. Skills developed include search skills, independent learning and taking responsibility for own learning.
Workbooks - 50 hours - answering questions based on information gained through guided reading/research. Skills developed include taking responsibility for learning, integration of, and reflection on, material presented, as well as application and communication of psychological knowledge.
Assessment Preparation - 37 hours (including independent work on evaluating web information and career search).

Summative Assessment
Tutor assessment of the Work Book 100% (Learning Outcomes 1 & 2)
The Work Book must be submitted by the January assessment week.

Formative Learning
Independent learning via guided readings, literature searches both web and library based and completing exercises in Work Book. Tutor led workshops will give guidance on preparing for the workbook (Learning Outcomes 1 and 2).
The Work Book will directly address Learning Outcomes 1 & 2 - the ability to learn independently, take responsibility for learning and develop skills of searching for and evaluating relevant information. The guided independent work will be supported by feedback given in seminars.

* A flat room - essential for effective group work
* Computers and internet access for online searches
* Lab needed for 2 weeks
* A set of journal articles in the Library or Learning Resource Centre (i.e. articles from journals the University Library does not have)
* Videos

Be registered on any Psychology Award

Wyse, D. (Ed.) (2004) Childhood Studies: An Introduction.
Schaffer, H.R. (2004) Introducing Child Psychology. Blackwell.
Hetherington, E.M. and Parke, R.D. (2003) Child Psychology - A Contemporary viewpoint
Sattler et al, (2000) Life-Span Development in Context