Child Development in a British Social Context

The course investigates developmental psychology. Students will examine childhood from historical, global, and socio-cultural perspectives and will explore the major topics of development. The course presents a socio-cultural approach to contemporary issues of children's development, and the impact of global trends, social dynamics and the urban environment on children's lives is explored. Class activities, field studies, discussions and lectures provide an insight into life in the UK - including education and childcare practices and policies - and explore how these factors shape child development. Issues such as children's early attachments, the emergence of consciousness and language, developmental disorders and the role of play will also be examined.