Students read primary sources with an emphasis on empirical findings. Research on the psychology of instruction is critically evaluated. Theoretical issues and implications for education are addressed. Individual differences in motivation and the interaction of learning and motivational processes are major areas of focus. The course focuses on the interaction of physical, cognitive, and social development from 5 to 18 years of age.
Students critically examine recently published research and evaluate current theory.
The relevance of the literature to educational practice is emphasized. Students examine fundamental dynamics of psychological development throughout the human life cycle. Various theoretical perspectives are presented, as well as related research. Implications for education and learning are emphasized. The course focuses on the emergence of human personality within a sociocultural matrix.