Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

The lectures and laboratory classes inform students of the DSM classification system of developmental disorders, and introduce general approaches to understanding atypical cognitive, social and neurological development. Several major forms of atypical child development [e.g. intellectual disability, autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)] and geriatric psychopathology (e.g. the dementias, including Alzheimer's disease) are covered. Commonly used designs and methods for conducting research on developmental disorders are reviewed.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of some of the major disorders of child development (e.g. intellectual disability, autism and ADHD); (2) demonstrate an understanding of some of the major forms of geriatric psychopathology (e.g. the dementias, including Alzheimer's disease); (3) explain the DSM classification system; (4) demonstrate an understanding of the major theories of some of the disorders and the major approaches to treatment; (5) develop communication skills in describing a body of psychological research; and (6) demonstrate an understanding of the major methods used in investigating developmental disorders.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) assignments; (2) in-class assessment; and (3) examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr. Donna Bayliss and Dr Kirsten Panton
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
three Unit(s) PSYC1101 Psychology: Mind and Brain
and Unit(s) PSYC1102 Psychology: Behaviour in Context
and Unit(s) PSYC2203 Introduction to Quantitative Methods in Psychology
Incompatibility
Unit(s) PSYC2208 Psychology: Atypical Development
Contact hours
lectures: 12 x 2 hours
seminars/labs: 4 x 2 hours
Note
Enrolled students can access unit material via LMS (Learning Management System).

Students are exposed to topics in psychology units that may cause some discomfort or distress in certain individuals (e.g. depression, suicide, trauma, eating disorders). They are also required to demonstrate skills across a variety of different formats and contexts (e.g. written assessments, participation in practical work, contribution to group discussions, oral presentations, examinations), so it is important to carefully consider whether they are able to cope with the demands of studying psychology and whether there is anything that would impact upon their ability to complete the requirements of the unit. Refer to individual unit outlines for more detailed unit information.
Texts

Current textbook information is available in the School of Psychology textbooks list.

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.