This module takes a developmental approach to common disorders of language and learning. By outlining the course of typical cognitive development, the learning differences associated with dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, developmental coordination disorder and autism will be set in context. The impact of these disorders both on children’s ability to access learning at school and on their socio-emotional wellbeing will be explored, alongside issues of identification, diagnosis and labelling. Students will be encouraged to debate difficult issues surrounding terminology, treatment programmes and stereotyping.
Module will run
Occurrence
Teaching period
A
Summer Term 2022-23
Module aims
This module aims to:
Provide an introduction to a range of developmental disorders which affect language and learning, including autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and dyslexia.
Present issues of causation, diagnosis and intervention.
Give students an opportunity to develop critical thinking and study skills.
Module learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate an understanding of the key difficulties experienced by children with a range of developmental disorders.
Describe some research methods used in the study of developmental disorders.
Contribute to debate around the diagnosis of young children.
Evaluate evidence on the effectiveness of intervention programmes for children with developmental disorders of communication and learning.
Indicative assessment
Task
% of module mark
Essay/coursework
100
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
Task
% of module mark
Essay/coursework
100
Module feedback
The tutor will give regular individual verbal and written feedback throughout the module on work submitted.
The assessment feedback is as per the university’s guidelines with regard to timings.
Indicative reading
Frith, U. (2003). Autism: Explaining the enigma. (2nd edn). Oxford: Blackwell
Garton, A.F. (2004). Exploring cognitive development: The child as problem solver. Oxford: Blackwell Publishing Limited.
Hulme, C. and Snowling, M. (2008). Developmental disorders of language learning and cognition. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell.