Module Directory

In this module, students will explore five key topics related to various aspects of people's lives, examining how these are experienced across different life stages, from late adolescence to older adulthood. Topics may include the impact of physical health on well-being, how neurodivergence (e.g., ADHD) presents and evolves across adulthood, how socio-emotional changes influence emotional experiences and social interactions, the effects of age-related changes in cognitive abilities on decision-making, planning, daily functioning, and independent living, and how people of different ages engage with technology in an era of rapid technological advancement. The specific topics may vary each year but will align with the overarching theme of lifespan development.

The module is designed to enhance students' understanding of socially relevant psychological issues while developing practical skills to support others in the community. Each topic begins with a lecture providing foundational knowledge, followed by a workshop the next week. Each week involves either a lecture or the accompanying workshop. During the workshop, students will explore the subject in greater depth, driven by their curiosity and supported by their peers and the lecturer. Students will be encouraged to approach the topics in ways that align with their career aspirations - for instance, exploring how activities workers in care homes can design psychologically-informed social activities to promote residents' well-being.

Additionally, for one of the five topics, students will attend a community event to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings. Examples include assisting an activities worker in a care home, observing intergenerational behaviour at a sporting event (e.g., a football match), or attending a neurodivergent-focused event.

For three of the five topics of their choice, students will produce a written report. These written reports will demonstrate their foundational understanding, insights from independent study and the workshop activities, and their ability to apply psychological knowledge for societal benefit.

The aims of this module are:

• To develop a strong foundational understanding of lifespan development while fostering self-directed learning to deepen understanding.


• To explore the societal relevance and practical applications of lifespan development research in real-world contexts.


• To cultivate critical thinking and reflective skills to identify effective strategies for supporting individuals and communities.


• To develop practical skills aligned with professional aspirations and career objectives.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Demonstrate a strong foundational understanding of lifespan development and apply self-directed learning strategies to explore topics in greater depth.


2. Identify the societal relevance of lifespan development research and apply its principles to specific real-world contexts.


3. Apply critical thinking and reflective skills to identify effective strategies for supporting individuals and communities.


4. Demonstrate practical skills that align with professional aspirations and career objectives.

Each topic will be delivered via:

• One lecture: This session delivers foundational knowledge, incorporating short reflective activities to encourage active learning and promote thoughtful reflection on the material.
• One workshop: Held in the week following the lecture, this session allows students to explore the topic in greater depth. Workshop activities, including “show and tell” sessions where students share insights from their independent study, as well as practical tasks, will foster personal growth and enhance collaborative learning.
• Additionally, for one of the five topics, students will attend a community event to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.