Theories of Human Development and Family Studies

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

• Understand how theory is critical in enriching our understanding of key content areas in human development and family studies.
• Understand the processes of theory construction and testing.
• Understand the relation between theory and research.
• Apply theories to social and interpersonal issues.
• Examine the adequacy of theories in helping to develop knowledge of the diversity of human development and families.
• Identify assumptions and propositions of theories in HDFS.
• Develop abilities to critique and evaluate theories.
• Gain knowledge and understanding of the wide range of forms and structures of families with varying cultural and other backgrounds.
• Become familiar with the major theories that have been used to understand families.
• Become more familiar with research on important contemporary issues about development and families, and how theories have helped generate this knowledge.
• Comprehend how HDFS theories are impacted by diversity.
• Improve ability to critically read and evaluate research that explicitly uses theory.
• Learn how to evaluate how effective family theories are and the strengths and weaknesses of specific theories.
• Develop writing and presentation skills.

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure	Percentage/Points
Reaction Papers (10 @ 10 points each)	100 points
Application Spotlight	20 points
Grant Pitch Presentation	50 points
Mock Grant	100 points
Attendance/Participation	20 points

Attendance/Participation:

Attendance is mandatory and is only excused for extreme extenuating circumstances.

Attendance/Participation is worth 20 points and emphasizes discussion and participation. Students are expected to come prepared to engage in lively discussion and present their thoughts, reactions, questions, and objections to the articles. Active participation includes bringing in discussion questions and current events relevant to the week's readings, appearing attentive and engaged in class activities, and exhibiting a willingness to share in the open exchange of ideas and experiences in a thought-provoking and respectful manner.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

No course materials are required.