Biological & Developmental Psychology

Module Content: Basic neuroanatomy. Structure and function of the neuron. Neural communication.Genetic and environmental factors. Heredity and prenatal development. Cognitive and intellectual development. Social and emotional changes through infancy and childhood.

Module Objective: To introduce the study of the brain, neurons and the nervous system. To examine the core principles of development in the period from conception through childhood.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of the module, students should be able to:
-Outline the main facets of how the brain and its constituent nerve cells act to control behaviour;
-Describe the core principles/areas of developmental change in the period from conception through childhood;
-Discuss issues that comprise social, emotional or cognitive development throughout childhood;
-Construct an appraisal, informed by the psychological literature, of a current topic in either biological or developmental psychology.

Teaching & Learning methods:
Lectures, tutorials, planned learning activities, independent study

Assessment:
Continuous Assessment: 20%
University scheduled written examination: 80%

Continuous Assessment detail(s): Essay