Topic: Reflection

Recall the first three weeks of this course EDUC: 6160 Early Childhood development, during which you learned about the science of studying child development, the world of prenatal development, birth, and the amazing developmental changes during the infant and toddlers years. You also began your child observations during that time-what a great way to deepen your understanding of theory by comparing it with the reality of children''s lives. After that, you immersed yourself in developmental changes during the early childhood years. And, as play is such an important element in the life of children 2-6 years old, you applied considerable effort to the study of play behaviour and its implications for development in the biosocial, cognitive, and psychosocial domains. You, then, advanced to learning about major developmental changes that effect 7-11 year old children; you refined your child development chart; and you concluded your child observations by focusing on school-age children. Additionally, throughout this course, you expanded your knowledge about child development by learning about children and their concerns around the globe. And along the way, you have had the opportunity to listen to a renowned child development scientist, watch exciting footage of babies and young children, and sharpen your own observation skills, as you listened to the observation commentary of two early childhood professionals.

Reflect on what you have learned, and review the course objectives.

Write a reflection paper that includes the following:

At least three insights you gained from your coursework, with regard to child development.

At least one insight you gained about children, and child development, related to global awareness, issues, and/or concerns.

Ways in which your initial assumptions, about the children and how children develop, have changed and/or been strengthened by your work in this course.

How any, or all, of Dr. Gopnik''s ideas in the media segment, "Studying Child Development: Lessons Learned,"stirred your professional curiosity, encouraged and/or inspired you professionally, and/or made you rethink assumptions you had about infants and young children.