Postgraduate Module Descriptor


ERPM006Z: Cognitive and Developmental Psychology

This module descriptor refers to the 2021/2 academic year.

Module Aims

The aim of the module will be to introduce you to the study of cognition and development.

As well as being introduced to some of the ways in which psychologists study development (including, for example, observational and experimental procedures, longitudinal and cross-sectional methods) you will also be introduced to a range of theoretical viewpoints which relate to these areas of study. You will be encouraged to apply these viewpoints to some of the major questions which have been raised in relation to cognition and development. This might include, for example, the roles of nature and nurture, stages of intellectual development and the development of language and social cognition. You will also be asked to examine the empirical research evidence relating to these key topics, including data which may derive from adult participants.

A major aim of the module will be for you to begin to understand what children and adolescents are like, what informs their understanding and how methods are used to build an effective and authoritative body of empirical research knowledge on them. You will be presented with ideas about children and childhood – relating both to their views and experiences, and those of the adults who might teach or parent them. This knowledge and understanding will prepare you to comment on and address some of the most pressing issues relating to young people in our society today.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here - you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.

On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. Describe basic concepts and findings in the area of cognitive development
2. Describe basic concepts and findings concerning human cognition
3. Indicate familiarity with a range of key theoretical viewpoints relating to development and cognition
4. Identify research designs and methods suitable for studying cognitive development, and for use with children and adolescents
5. Give examples of key empirical studies which have addressed some of the major societal questions relating to cognition and development
Discipline-Specific Skills6. Demonstrate good basic knowledge and understanding of the conceptual issues which are central to the subject
7. Review and evaluate empirical research evidence and published literature in the field of study, identifying strengths and weaknesses
8. Address problems critically, creatively and systematically
9. Apply theory and consider empirical research evidence in relation to ‘real world’ problems in order to identify potential solutions or new areas of investigation
Personal and Key Skills10. Develop logical and coherent arguments in your written work
11. Evaluate your own strengths and weaknesses, making use of peer and tutor feedback
12. Manage your time effectively and undertake essential study tasks, making use of the guidance available