Human Growth and Development I - Childhood and Adolescence

This course examines human development from conception through adolescence. Students will explore the physical, cognitive, and social-emotional changes that occur across early life stages, including prenatal development, infancy, early childhood, middle childhood, and adolescence. Emphasis is placed on major developmental theories, including those of Piaget and Erikson, as well as the biological and environmental factors that influence growth. Topics include prenatal development, birth and the newborn period, early physical and cognitive development, the role of play in learning, emotional and social development in early childhood, development during the school-age years, and identity formation in adolescence. The course focuses on understanding patterns of development and applying developmental principles to real-world contexts.

Course Learning Outcomes

• Describe the major stages of human development from conception through adolescence, including key physical, cognitive, and social-emotional changes.

• Explain prenatal development and factors that influence early growth, including biological and environmental influences.

• Describe physical development in infancy and early childhood, including motor development and changes in the body.

• Explain major theories of cognitive development, including Piaget’s stages, and apply these concepts to understanding children’s thinking and learning.

• Analyze the role of play in cognitive and social development during early childhood.

• Describe emotional and social development in infancy and childhood, including attachment and early relationships.

• Explain developmental changes during middle childhood, including cognitive, social, and academic development.

• Describe key aspects of adolescent development, including physical changes, identity formation, and social relationships.

• Explain Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development, particularly identity versus role confusion in adolescence.

• Apply developmental concepts to real-world situations, such as parenting, education, and social development.