Module 1 Activity 5: Developmental
Psychology:
According to Shaffer (1996) cited in the readings,
Developmental Psychology is the study of how individuals change over time and
what factors produce these changes. This is a very significant area of study in
that it:
- · Creates an awareness of the changes children go through and when they occur
- · Provides information that is useful to the proper care and upbringing of children
- · Creates an awareness of what a child needs to develop
- · Brings to the fore the developmental issues children are confronted with
- · Points to the need for adults and more capable individuals to assist children in overcoming their problems and so on and so forth
This particular
reading has caused me the engage in some reflection about the extent to which
my teaching practice is informed by development psychology and the need for a deeper
understanding of the issues related to child development. Such knowledge can
only enhance my practice in the classroom. Additionally, I would be better able
to offer assistance to parents who are in dire need of support in the proper
care and upbringing of their child or children.
The readings also point to the role the school,
parents, adults and other capable individuals play in the development of the
child. This has caused me to realize that there is a greater need for the
community involvement in the education of our children. In this regard, the
school must take a leading role in forging such relationships with the community.
