This unit will describe and study changes, continuity and growth that occurs in human development from infancy to older age. It will give an overview of the complexities of development, including theoretical frameworks for understanding patterns of transition and constancy across the human life course. Biological, physical, psycho-social, cognitive, cultural and contextual factors affecting development will be discussed. You will be introduced to concepts and terminology used in life course development. Implications of life course development issues for health professional practice will be explored. This course will provide a sound foundation for understanding expected life course events. It will provide a basis for learning about atypical life course occurrences in subsequent courses.

Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.

Feedback from Informal student email

The design and delivery of this unit was engaging and enjoyable.

It is recommended that the design and delivery of this unit continue in its current form as this new approach has resulted in significant increases in student satisfaction and engagement.

Feedback from Have you Say

The lecture content was supported by high quality learning resources and materials which made learning fun and interactive.

It is recommended that the lecture content for this unit continue to be supported by a variety of interactive learning resources and materials so that students continue to find learning fun.

Feedback from Have your Say

The number of assessment tasks were somewhat overwhelming.

It is recommended that the assessment tasks for this unit be reviewed and where possible and appropriate, there be a reduction in assessment tasks and/or assessment requirements to reduce the burden on students.

Feedback from Have your Say

The unit coordinator was very supportive, easy to engage with and passionate about the content.

It is recommended that unit coordinators continue to be supportive of students learning and that they remain approachable to students thus encouraging student engagement. It is also recommended that unit coordinators continue to teach with passion as students recognise and appreciate it.