Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title Lifespan Development: Adulthood
Module Code NSP03
School School of Nursing and Human Sciences
Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorSemester 1: Catherine Maunsell
Semester 2: Catherine Maunsell
Autumn: Catherine Maunsell
Module TeacherCatherine Maunsell
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description
The module extends the study of developmental psychology into adult development and ageing. The module aims to provide the student with an understating of developmental psychology across the lifespan, with specific emphasis on physical development, cognitive development, social and emotional development throughout each stage of adulthood. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the theories, themes and concepts in developmental psychology and appreciate that development continues throughout the lifespan. In addition, students will learn about the current issues and methods involved in lifespan research, together with specific empirical studies that address developmental research questions, and contemporary and cross-sectional developments that have emerged in the field.

Learning Outcomes
1. Understand the major theories, themes and concepts of developmental psychology specifically applied to adulthood
2. Outline the consequences of cognitive, social, personality, physical and mental health changes in everyday life throughout the lifespan of the individual
3. Appreciate the environmental and personal issues associated with the aging process



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24No Description
Tutorial4No Description
Directed learning10No Description
Independent learning time87No Description
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Introduction.
Theories and themes of developmental psychology.

Adulthood 1.
Introduction to adulthood and TILDA research.

Adulthood 2.
Emerging adulthood.

Personal Relationships 1.
Sexuality and attraction.

Personal Relationships 2.
Family and close relationships.

Worklife.
Careers and work.

Cognitive Development.
Cognitive Development and Functioning.

Physical Development.
Physical Changes and Health Status.

Psychological Development.
Coping, Adaption and Mental health.

Self-Identity.
Issues of Culture, Gender, Ethnicity, and Age.

Psychosocial Development 2.
Quality of Life.

Psychosocial Development 2.
Psychosocial aspects of the Aging Process.

End of Life.
Death, Dying and Bereavement.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment30% Examination Weight70%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Report (s) (written / oral)Students will be required to interview an older person and write a case study report on their life, integrating the theories and concepts covered on the module.30%n/a
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1
Indicative Reading List
  • Santrock, J.: 2010, Life Span Development, 13th, McGraw Hill, New York,
  • Lemme, B.: 2005, Development in Adulthood, 4th, Allyn & Bacon, Boston,
  • Moody, H. & Sasser, J.: 2012, Aging: Concepts and Controversies, 7th, Sage,
  • Cavanaugh, J & Blanchard-Fields, S.: 2011, Adult Development and Aging, 6th, Cengage Learning,
  • Bjorklund, B: 0, The Journey of Adulthood, 7th, Pearson,
  • Bee, H. & Boyd, D.: 0, Lifespan Development, 5th, Allyn & Bacon, Boston,
  • Erikson, E.H.: 1994, Identity and the Life Cycle, Norton & Co.,
Other Resources
None
Array
Programme or List of Programmes
BPYBSc (Honours) in Psychology
Timetable this semester: Timetable for NSP03
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