Singapore University of Social Sciences

Human Growth and Lifespan Development

Human Growth and Lifespan Development (SWK102)

Synopsis

This course covers the developmental changes, issues and challenges in human development from birth to late adulthood. The life-span perspective explored here is viewed as lifelong, multidimensional, plastic, multidisciplinary, and contextual. This perspective actively involves growth, maintenance, and regulation. The course will also examine contemporary concerns from infancy through old age. Presented in depth and breadth, and supplemented with interactive, hands-on tutorial activities, this course will provide the students with a solid foundation in the knowledge of human growth and life-span development as they prepare for a career in the helping profession.

Level: 1
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: EVERY REGULAR SEMESTER

Topics

  • Introduction to life-span development
  • Theories of human life-span development
  • Pre-natal Development and Birth
  • Infancy
  • Early Childhood
  • Middle Childhood
  • Late Childhood
  • Adolescence
  • Early Adulthood
  • Middle Adulthood
  • Late Adulthood
  • Endings & Conclusion

Learning Outcome

  • Explain the concept of, and concepts related to human life-span development.
  • Describe the main principles of life-span perspective.
  • Give an overview of the main theories of human growth & life-span development.
  • Illustrate physical development from infancy through old age.
  • Interpret cognitive development from infancy through old age.
  • Demonstrate psychosocial development from infancy through old age.
  • Identify contemporary issues in the various developmental stages.
  • Discuss the applications, research & research challenges of life-span development.
  • Apply life-stage appropriate knowledge base in life-span development to enhance their understanding of their clients from the various age groups.
  • Employ the life-span approach in selecting life-stage appropriate strategies and interventions for their clients.
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