What do education students learn about child and adolescent development?
Education students learn how children and adolescents develop physically, cognitively, linguistically, socially and emotionally from early childhood through adolescence. Study may include developmental theories, milestones, individual and cultural differences, factors affecting development, and how development influences learning, behaviour, relationships and teaching practice. They may also consider observation, assessment, inclusion and safeguarding.
Key points
- Development is examined as an interconnected process rather than as separate skills.
- Students may explore the effects of family, peers, culture, community, health and educational settings.
- Learning about development helps future educators adapt teaching, recognise individual needs and support wellbeing.
Things to check
- Topics, terminology and the age ranges covered vary by university, programme and country, so the specific course outline should be checked in official information.