Course Syllabus

Independent Study in Idaho

ISI Websiteindepst@uidaho.edu | 208-885-6641 

PSYC 3050 Developmental Psychology

Sponsoring Institution: University of Idaho

3 Credits 

Instructor Information 

Course Instructor:  Traci Craig

Image of Dr. Traci Craig, the course instructor

Hello and welcome to PSYC 3050: Developmental Psychology!

I'm Dr. Traci Craig, and I will be your instructor for this course. I received my bachelor's in psychology at New Mexico State University and my master's and PhD at Purdue University. My expertise revolves around Language, Applied group dynamics and Workplace concerns. You can read more about my background on my University of Idaho faculty page.

Please feel free to contact me via email. I look forward to working with and supporting you as you explore Developmental Psychology.

Course Description 

Conception through late adolescence; genetics, anatomy, physiology, biological changes during development, learning, socialization, cognition, and personality. This course covers conception through death.

Prerequisite: PSYC 101 Introduction to Psychology or EDCI 301 Learning, Development, and Assessment

Course Learning Outcomes 

This course provides an overview of the development of the individual, beginning with conception, up to and including, death and dying. Areas that will be considered are physical, cognitive, and social development.

This course aims to provide a greater understanding of the development of others and oneself.

Required Materials 

Belsky, Janet. Experiencing the Lifespan. 3rd Ed. Worth: 2013. ISBN: 9781429299220 or 1429299223

Course Rules and Requirements 

11 graded assignments, 4 self-study assignments, 4 exams

Students may submit up to 3 assignments per week. Before taking exams, students MUST wait for grades and feedback on assignments, which may take up to two weeks after date of receipt by the instructor. ALL assignments and exams must be submitted to receive a final grade for the course.

Graded Lessons

Each lesson includes:

  • A reading assignment
  • A written assignment

Each lesson and examination will consist of multiple-choice and essay questions. When answering the multiple-choice items in an assignment, select the best alternative and, if possible, justify your selection by indicating the page and line numbers that you used to answer the question.

Essays

The essays will consist of two types of questions:

  • A factual essay in which you will be required to organize the lesson material into some meaningful whole. 
  • A thought essay where there is no “correct answer.” Here it is hoped that you will express your opinion regarding specific (and controversial) topics. You may use outside sources to support your opinions.

Write at least 150–200 words (one page) for each essay question. It is important that you organize your answer and give appropriate examples. Remember, you are trying to communicate your thoughts and ideas!

Self-Study Lessons

Some lessons are labeled “self-study.” These lessons will not be submitted to your instructor; however, the content will be covered on examinations. You can find the answers to self-study questions on Canvas.

Submission Guidelines

  • Students may submit up to 3 assignments in one week. Any submitted beyond that will automatically be given zeros.
  • All assignments preceding each exam must be completed and submitted before the exam can be taken.
  • Wait for grades and feedback on assignments prior to submitting subsequent assignments.
  • Write your name, V Number, course, and assignment number on every submission.
  • Students may submit assignments via Canvas (as attached .doc, .docx, .rtf, or .pdf files ONLY).
  • You will typically receive graded assignments within three weeks after the date of the receipt by the instructor.

Study Hints:

  • Keep a copy of every assignment submitted.
  • Complete all reading assignments.
  • Set a schedule allowing for the completion of the course one month prior to your desired deadline. An Assignment Submission Log is provided for this purpose.

Exams

You are encouraged to wait for grades and comments on lessons prior to taking each exam. Refer to Grade Information for specific information on assignment/exam points and percentages.

Exam Guidelines

  • Exams are administered via Canvas.
  • Wait for grades and feedback on assignments prior to taking exams.
  • Exams are closed book and closed note.
  • There are two sections to each exam: multiple choice and essays.

Email Standards

Place questions or comments for the instructor in the body of the email. In the email's subject line include:

  • Your name, V number, course subject and number, and assignment number(s).
    • Example: Joe Vandal, V01234567, BUS L321, Assignments 1, 2

Grade Information 

The course grade will be based upon the following considerations:

The final course grade is issued after all assignments and exams have been graded. Your final grade in the course will be based upon the four (4) examinations and an overall grade for the 11 lesson assignments. Each of these five (5) components will be equally weighted to determine your grade in the course:

  • Lesson assignments (11) 20%
  • Exam 1 20%
  • Exam 2 20%
  • Exam 3 20%
  • Exam 4 20%

Note: There is no comprehensive final in this course. 

Grade Scale:

  • 90-100% A
  • 80-89% B
  • 60-79% C
  • 50-59% D
  • 49-0% F

Acts of academic dishonesty, including cheating or plagiarism, are considered a very serious transgression and may result in a grade of F for the course.

Course Policies 

Refer to the ISI website's Current Students page for the most current policies and procedures, including information on setting up accounts, student confidentiality, exams, transcripts, course exchanges, refunds, academic integrity, library resources, disability support and other services.