512-370 Cognitive and Neurological Development 3

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Prerequisites

512-224 or 512-221 (or equivalent)

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

This subject examines contemporary perspectives on the cognitive (including linguistic) and neurological bases of development. The focus will be on parallels between theories of cognitive development and neurological models of developmental functioning primarily in the preadolescent period. Current views on prenatal and postnatal development of the central nervous system will be examined. The impact of neurological insult on the development of children's reasoning will also be discussed. Issues to be covered include domain specific vs domain neutral accounts of cognitive and intellectual development; the role of induction and categorisation in the development of reasoning; autism and children's theory of mind; and the development of general memory, attention, planning and analogical reasoning skills. Domains to be covered include the development of language, number and biological understanding. The unifying focus of the subject will be on characterising stability, change and variability in different developmental processes.

Assessment

Written work of no more than 3000 words.

Attendance at 80% or more of the laboratory classes is a hurdle requirement. (In case of failure to meet the hurdle requirement, additional work will be required before a passing grade can be awarded.)