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Introduction to Development & Language 1 - PSY00013C

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  • Department: Psychology
  • Module co-ordinator: Dr. Hannah Hobson
  • Credit value: 10 credits
  • Credit level: C
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2022-23

Module aims

This module aim to introduce students to two key areas of psychology: Developmental Psychology and the Psychology of Language.

Module learning outcomes

  • Understand the nature of language and the main themes and controversies in the study of language
  • Understand on the possible evolutionary origins of language
  • Understand the similarities and differences between animal and human communication
  • Discuss the innate and learned aspects of language and the evidence regarding the relationship between language and cognition
  • Understand how Developmental Psychology has developed and to appreciate the different research methods used in developmental psychology
  • Understand Piaget's theory and its stages, appreciating the factors that Piaget proposed as determinants of development
  • Understand Vygotsky's theory and to be able to compare and contrast his views with those of Piaget

Module content

This module focuses on two key area of psychological study: Developmental Psychology and the Psychology of Language. The module begins with a broad introduction to language discussing what human languages are, what characterizes them in comparison to animal communication, how they are acquired, and what role they play in human cognition and culture. The second half of the course will focus on introduce students to Developmental Psychology. The first session is an introduction to the discipline of developmental psychology. There will be sessions focusing on developmental research methods and on the ideas of the key theorists in Developmental Psychology; John Bowlby, Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky.

Indicative assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Introduction to Development & Language 1		 N/A 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Introduction to Development & Language 1		 N/A 100

Module feedback

Marks will be released via e:vision.

Indicative reading

Harley, T. A. (2008). The Psychology of Language: From data to theory (3rd. ed.) Hove: Psychology press.

Slater S. & Bremner, J. G. (2011). An Introduction to Developmental Psychology, 2nd edition.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.