Neurodiversity and Development

Module overview

The “Neurodiversity and Development” module explores the wide range of developmental pathways shaping mental health, wellbeing, behaviour, and cognitive functioning across infancy, childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood. The module critically discusses traditional models of psychopathology and impairment, while also exploring alternative frameworks that conceptualise neurodivergence as a valuable aspect of natural human diversity. Students will engage in critical and scientifically informed analysis of how environmental fit, societal expectations, and systemic barriers contribute to distress, wellbeing, and functional outcomes. The module will also address issues of identification, assessment, and support across developmental stages.

Linked modules

Pre-requisites: PSYC2007 AND (SSPC2003 or PSYC2020 or EDU2054)

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

-Lectures will introduce and explore foundational concepts and key topics in neurodevelopment and developmental psychology (e.g., ADHD, autism, emotion regulation, sleep). -During Interactive Tutorials, students will work in pairs or small groups to apply knowledge to real-life scenarios (e.g., in relation to assessment and evaluation, or intervention/support planning across clinical, educational or community contexts). -Drop-in and Q&A sessions: students will engage with module convenors and lecturers about different topics that are relevant to neurodevelopment, developmental psychology or research methods

Study time
Type	Hours
Independent Study	114
Teaching	36
Total study time	150

Resources & Reading list

General Resources

Lecture & Tutorial slides and suggested readings. Lectures and tutorials are intended to provide basic information on each topic and its applications, and should be supplemented with independent research into topics of interest by consulting the suggested readings and articles.

Assessment

Assessment strategy

The final module mark is made up of: •Individual Coursework (30% of total mark) •Final Exam (69% of total mark) •Research Participation (1% of total mark)

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Individual Coursework	30%
Assessment	69%
Research Participation	1%

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Assessment	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External