Naturalistic Observation Project: Observations are an important part of studying human development. You will be required to submit one (1) observation for this course. Instructions for the completion of the observation are provided on the following page. The observation is worth 100 points for a total of 15% of your grade.
Instruction for submitting the Naturalistic Observation.
Course Number: DEP-2004
Course Title: HUMAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
Description
To conduct observations is an important part of studying human development. Select a subject to watch either (not a family member) at a mall, playground, daycare, school, library, etc. You should observe the subject for at least 30 minutes without interrupting them. Prior to the observation, the subject should not be made aware of your study. Once done, you can disclose the purpose of your project.
Requirement
The subject you select should be between 0-18 years of age. You must follow APA ethical guidelines.
Content
The following points need to be address on your report:
• Demographics. (age, race, sex etc.)
• Appearance. (clothing, approximate height and weight and other defining characteristics)
• Physical Development.
• Cognitive Development. (Piaget’s stages – which one?)
• Emotional and Social Development (Erickson’s stages – which one?)
• Does the child meet the milestones and stages for the physical, cognitive, and social/emotional development?
• Is there anything unusual or “off-development” for this child (deficits as well as giftedness)?
• Your thoughts about the observation.
• Your opinion about what you observed and the application of the theories of development.
Format
• The observations should be between 2 to 3 pages maximum.
• Write your name on the top of the page.
• Font: 12.
• Double spaced.
• The report should be in your own words.
• No images, graphics, etc.
• Focus on content, no fluff.
• Make sure you write your name.
Grading Criteria
The report is worth 15% of your grade. A breakdown of the grading criteria is described as:
• Grammar – 20 points
• Content – 60 points
• Format – 20 points
Please, follow the following aspects to successfully complete this assignment:
• Where the Observation took place.
• Child’s Physical development observed.
• Cognitive Development according to Piaget’s stages.
• Emotional and Social Development according to Erickson’s stages.
• Does the child meet the milestones and stages for the physical, cognitive, and social/emotional development? Yes/No. Explain why.
• Is there anything unusual or “off-development” for this child (deficits as well as giftedness)?