This unit (EEC1112) explores the complex factors that influence children and young people's development and the implications for educators. Students develop their understanding through an examination of human development theories within a contemporary appreciation for interconnected individual, community and global influences for sustaining development and personal and planetary wellbeing. Through critique of frameworks for describing human development students consider how these have influenced, or are likely to influence, educational practices. Students are introduced to key approaches for fostering children and young people's development and are supported to develop their capacity to use theory to examine contemporary educational issues as well as in their own education practices.

Unit details

Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
EEC1112

Prerequisites

This unit is only for Education students undertaking courses ABED, EBED, EBCL, EBEC and EBST.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Explain key concepts regarding children and young people's physical, cognitive, psycho-emotional and social development;  
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of impact factors that shape human development through use of biomedical, sociocultural and ecological determinants conceptual lenses;  
  3. Analyse connections between children and young people's development, wellbeing and global human development;  
  4. Consider how human development models have shaped childhood and education by challenging their own and institutional assumptions about transitional, relational and cultural perspectives on human development;  
  5. Examine the changing nature of childhood and the agency of young people, and how education is shifting accordingly;  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Assignment Case based analysis of practice informed by theory. Overview of a current issue affecting human development. 20%
Report Report on strategies to support development. 45%
Journal Review of key concepts and literature 35%

Where to next?

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.

VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.