Developmental Psychology

Understand the Journey of Human Growth: Why do we think, learn, and behave the way we do? In just a few years, humans transform from infants to individuals capable of complex thought, communication, and moral reasoning. Through engaging readings, observations, case studies, and hands-on activities, this course will introduce you to the fascinating study of human development, focusing on significant physical, emotional, cognitive, and social changes from birth through adolescence. You’ll explore key questions like heredity vs. environment, stability vs. change, and continuity vs. discrete stages of development.

Why Take This Course? If you’re captivated by how people learn, grow, and evolve, this course offers an in-depth look at how we become who we are. Perfect for aspiring educators, psychologists, or anyone intrigued by human behavior, you’ll gain valuable insights into language acquisition, learning, and personality development from both Western and non-Western perspectives.

Students in GOA courses will need reliable access to a computer with webcam/microphone connections, an email address (preferably school-based), a Web-conferencing app (GOA courses use Zoom), and a Word processing app (GOA courses use Google’s G Suite). When necessary, alternative arrangements may be made. Some courses require additional materials which can be found here.

NCAA-approved course

UC-approved course

View Course Outline