The first Year experience: KEY ASpects Human Growth and Development Faculty Field EDucation Office Jumpstart

change Human Growth & Development

Human Growth and Development (HGD) Year-long course introducing students to College through the study of the developing person using research papers, analytic observations, and clinical interviews. One of the cornerstone courses at Wheelock College taught by professors who work with students as they develop College level writing, note taking, and observation skills in order to build a strong foundation for future courses. Offers students the opportunity to work in “real life” settings in the city each semester.

Why is HGD A requirement? Students gain: critical thinking skills about how people develop and change through the lifespan, an understanding of the role of culture in development, and cultural competence and knowledge studying cross cultural research and participating in the community. Students learn: about themselves as learners, how they developed into the people they are today, and that the understanding of human development is foundational for most of our professional work.

Integrating what YOU learn with Your experiences HGD students travel to sites in the City to see developmental theories in practice in their 30 hour field placements. Class discussions and written work offer opportunities to share experiences from field experience and analyze our observations. Faculty teaching this course are researchers, clinicians, and practioners who are able to easily weave student interests into course material.

CREATING A COMMUNITY CONTEXT HGD students will meet throughout the year to hear panel discussions focused on learning about culture, diversity, and community. work together to create contexts for understanding differences when working with others. participate in building relationships with others working in the community.

SPRING 2018 What will you know and where will you be at the end of your first year? Many students have a clear idea of their major because of the HGD course work, research, and practical experience. Students have completed many research and analytic papers, created slide show presentations, and read articles and text to support their knowledge of HGD. Students have engaged in discussions and conversations that have illuminated interesting aspects of their professional paths. Pre-requisites for Social Work, Child Life, Psychology, and Education courses are on their way to being met by the successful completion of HGD.