EDU 1102: Child Development

Course Description

This course examines the growth and development of children from infancy through adolescence, focusing on physical, cognitive, language, emotional, and social development. It emphasizes the application of child development theories to classroom practice, with particular attention to the Somali context and the unique role of female teachers in supporting children’s holistic growth.

Course Objectives

By the end of the course, female student-teachers will be able to:

• Explain major theories and principles of child development.
• Describe physical, cognitive, language, emotional, and social development stages.
• Recognize individual differences in child development and their classroom implications.
• Apply developmental principles to support effective teaching and learning.
• Address challenges in child development, including adolescence and cultural expectations.
• Promote inclusive and gender-sensitive teaching practices in Somali schools.

Required Materials

1. Core Textbooks

• Berk, L. E. (2018). Development Through the Lifespan (7th ed.). Pearson.
• Santrock, J. W. (2019). Children (14th ed.). McGraw-Hill.
• Shaffer, D. R., & Kipp, K. (2014). Developmental Psychology: Childhood and Adolescence (9th ed.). Cengage.

2. Teaching Aids

• Whiteboard, charts, and visuals of developmental stages
• Videos/documentaries on child growth and learning
• Case studies on Somali children’s development