Cognitive Development in Context

This course will provide an overview of theories, methods, and research findings in the area of cognitive development with focus on individual differences in various domains, including language, memory, and social cognition. The course is designed around in-class discussion and critical analysis of core controversies within the field. The course is heavily discussion-based, with the aim of creating a dynamic class context for active learning. The three main emphases around which the course is structured include: (1) theoretical foundations and methodological approaches to cognition; (2) the course and process of cognitive development; and (3) contextual influences on cognitive processes (specifically, family, school, neighborhood, culture).