Faculty of Business: Leisure, Sport and Tourism
Credit points: 6 cp

Subject level: Undergraduate

Result Type: Grade and marks

Requisite(s): 27228 Lifespan Development
There are also course requisites for this subject. See access conditions.

Handbook description

This subject covers the physical, cognitive and socio-emotional aspects of adolescent development. Students learn the major issues and challenges that youth face as they mature and prepare for the adult world.

Subject objectives/outcomes

On successful completion of this subject students should be able to:

1. Discuss the physical developmental changes and impact that adolescents experience.
2. Describe adolescent cognitive development.
3. Identify the major challenges and issues that adolescents face, physically, mentally, emotionally and socially.
4. Identify and explain the environmental and cultural influences on adolescents.
5. Discuss the key issues regarding adolescents at risk, and harm minimisation strategies.

Contribution to graduate profile

This is a core subject for students in the BA Human Movement Studies/Graduate Diploma in Education program who intend to complete the PDHPE stream. It provides crucial information regarding the developmental stages and needs of adolescents, as well as highlighting key issues and challenges facing youth today. This subject is compulsory for students who wish to be accredited as PDHPE teachers by the NSW Department of Education.

Teaching and learning strategies

Teaching and learning strategies include formal lectures and tutorials. Content for this subject will be supported by UTSOnline.

Content

• Physical development
• Cognitive development
• Nature of adolescent schooling
• Adolescent problems and disorders
• Adolescents at risk
• Role of families and peers
• Culture and adolescent development
• Identity issues for adolescents
• Religious development

Assessment

Mid Semester Examination (Individual)	35%
This addresses objectives 1 and 2.
Student Presentations (Individual)	25%
This addresses objectives 3-5.
Final Exam (Individual)	40%
This addresses objectives 4 and 5.

Examinations will be conducted under University examination conditions, hence thoroughly addressing concerns regarding secure assessment. Student presentations will be conducted individually, with content and topics changed annually.

Recommended text(s)

A student reader will be prepared.

Indicative references

Adams, A. (ed) (2000). Adolescent Development: The Essential Readings. Malden, MA: Blackwell.

Aries, E. (2001). Adolescent Behaviour: Readings and Interpretations. Sydney: McGraw-Hill.

Ausyouth (2001). Good Practice in Youth Development: A Framework of Principles – A Discussion Document. Available: http://www.ausyouth.on.net

Santrock, J. (2003). Lifespan Development, 8th edition. Sydney: McGraw-Hill.