Overview

The purpose of Psych 570 is to provide students with an in-depth introduction to the major theories, methods, and empirical data from the field of early cognitive development (i.e., approximately 0 to 6 years). The course is divided topically into three conceptual units. In Unit 1, we will first survey the theoretical foundations by reviewing the major concepts and ideas that have shaped the field of cognitive development. In Unit 2, we will “take sides” by reading (and debating!) opposing papers on a particular developmental phenomenon or question. Finally, during Unit 3 students will take turns presenting their research proposals.

As noted below, successful completion of the course will depend not only mastery of the material, but also on regular participation in—and occasional leading of—classroom discussion. To this end, a variety of class activities will give students the opportunity to pose and answer questions relevant both to their current training and to the topic of cognitive development.

Course Outline

Grades. Final grades will be based on the cumulative points received from exams, written assignments, and an oral presentation.

1. Exams. At the end of Units 1 and 2, students will complete a written, take-home essay exam. The goal of the exam is to not only demonstrate mastery of fundamental concepts, but also provide a critical, integrative analysis of the literature. 2 exams, 100 points each.

2. Written Assignments. The goals of the written assignments are to (1) enable students to maintain a consistent pace in the assigned readings, (2) explore broader issues raised by the course material, and (3) identify and develop potential topics for the research proposal.

   1. Reading questions: Three essay-style questions are due on Friday of each week for the following week’s class. Prepare questions that may potentially form the basis of the research proposal. 30 points.

   2. Literature search: As part of the research proposal (see below), each student will prepare a brief summary of the key articles that form the core of their literature search and review. Please note that students are required to meet and consult with the instructor in order to identify their research topic. 20 points.

3. Research proposal. In order to demonstrate mastery of at least one area covered by the course, students will select a topic and prepare an 8- to 10-page research proposal, including literature review, hypotheses, methods, and expected results. A handout with detailed instructions will be provided.

   1. Oral presentation: The end of the semester will be reserved for an oral presentation of the research proposal, including the literature review, hypotheses, and preliminary methods. 50 points.

   2. Written proposal: A written research proposal will be submitted at the end of the semester. 100 points

Grading Scale

360 – 400 A

320 – 359 B

280 – 319 C

240 – 279 D

239 or less F

Taking Sides. Unit 2 will focus on selected readings from cognitive development, which highlight some of the recent debates in the field. Students will be assigned a date to (1) summarize an article, (2) debate the position raised in the article with another student, and (3) lead discussion on the topic with the debate partner.

Administrative Details

Attendance. Attendance at all classes is required. If you anticipate missing class due to circumstances beyond your control (e.g., family emergency), you are expected to notify the instructor in advance, and to make arrangements to make up the time missed.

Academic Honesty. All students are expected to read and follow the University guidelines regarding academic conduct. Any student in violation of these guidelines will, where circumstances merit (e.g., cheating during an exam), immediately receive a grade of F and be referred to the Dean for further review.

Grading Questions. Questions concerning grading (e.g., correction of a grading error) must be submitted in writing. All questions must be submitted within one week of the exam or assignment return date (i.e., the date we return the exam back to you).