Module ERPM006 for 2020/1
- Overview
- Aims and Learning Outcomes
- Module Content
- Indicative Reading List
- Assessment
Postgraduate Module Descriptor
ERPM006: Cognitive and Developmental Psychology
This module descriptor refers to the 2020/1 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.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to: | |
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Module-Specific Skills | 1. 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 Skills | 6. 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 Skills | 10. 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 |