Human growth and development is a fascinating field that delves into the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social changes that occur throughout a person’s life. It is a crucial area of study for professionals who work in education, healthcare, psychology, social services, and a range of other sectors. The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Human Growth and Development offers an in-depth exploration of this subject, providing learners with a comprehensive understanding of the various stages of human development and the factors that influence it.
Human growth and development refer to the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes that individuals experience from birth through to death. It is a lifelong process influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, culture, and life experiences. By studying human development, professionals gain insights into the needs and challenges of people at each stage of life and can provide better support, care, and education.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Human Growth and Development provides professionals with the essential knowledge they need to understand human growth across the lifespan. This course is designed to equip you with the insights necessary to support individuals at different stages of life, whether in the classroom, healthcare settings, or social services.
By completing this course, you will be well-prepared to enhance your practice and offer better support to the people you work with, contributing positively to their growth and well-being.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Human Growth and Development
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Human Growth and Development (3 hours)
- Understand the basic concepts and principles of human growth and development.
- Identify the key stages of human development from infancy to old age.
- Recognise the factors influencing growth, including genetic, environmental, and cultural elements.
- Appreciate the importance of milestones in development for professional assessment and care.
Theories of Human Development (4 hours)
- Explore the major developmental theories, including those by Piaget, Erikson, and Vygotsky.
- Understand how different theories explain the progression of physical, cognitive, and social development.
- Apply developmental theories to real-life situations and various professional practices.
- Critically analyse the strengths and limitations of each theory in explaining human growth.
Physical Development Across the Lifespan (4 hours)
- Gain insights into the physical milestones and changes that occur from childhood through adulthood.
- Understand the impact of puberty, ageing, and physical health on overall development.
- Learn the relationship between physical development and other areas of growth such as cognitive and emotional development.
- Identify potential physical developmental delays and their implications for care and support.
Cognitive Development: Milestones and Influences (4 hours)
- Understand the stages of cognitive development from infancy to adulthood.
- Learn about key cognitive milestones such as language acquisition, problem-solving, and decision-making.
- Recognise the influence of genetic and environmental factors on cognitive abilities.
- Apply strategies to support cognitive development in different age groups.
Social and Emotional Development in Early Life (5 hours)
- Explore the key social and emotional milestones in early childhood.
- Understand the role of attachment, self-esteem, and social interactions in early emotional development.
- Examine how emotional regulation and social relationships influence overall development.
- Identify the impact of early experiences on later emotional and social well-being.
Developmental Changes in Adolescence and Adulthood (4 hours)
- Study the physical, cognitive, and emotional changes that occur during adolescence and adulthood.
- Understand the challenges of adolescence, including identity formation, peer relationships, and independence.
- Learn about the developmental transitions in adulthood, including career, relationships, and ageing.
- Identify the factors influencing mental health and well-being during adolescence and adulthood.
The Impact of Genetics and Environment on Development (3 hours)
- Learn about the interplay between genetic factors and environmental influences on development.
- Understand how genetics shape physical traits, intelligence, and temperament.
- Examine the role of culture, family, and socioeconomic factors in development.
- Discuss the long-term effects of both genetic predispositions and environmental experiences.
Challenges in Development: Delays and Disorders (3 hours)
- Identify common developmental delays and disorders such as autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities.
- Understand the impact of these delays on physical, cognitive, and emotional development.
- Learn about early detection, diagnosis, and intervention strategies for developmental challenges.
- Explore the role of healthcare, education, and social services in supporting individuals with developmental disorders.
- Comprehensive Understanding of Human Development: Gain an in-depth knowledge of the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social aspects of human growth from infancy to old age.
- Enhanced Professional Practice: Equip yourself with the skills to apply developmental theories and principles in your professional role, whether in healthcare, education, or social services.
- Improved Client Support: Learn to identify and address developmental milestones, delays, and disorders, allowing you to provide more effective support and care to individuals at various life stages.
- Practical Application of Developmental Knowledge: Understand how to apply the knowledge gained in real-world settings, from classrooms to healthcare environments, to create better strategies for child development and support for adults.
- Career Advancement: The diploma equips you with specialised knowledge in human growth and development, enhancing your qualifications and career prospects in education, healthcare, social work, psychology, and related fields.
- Expert Knowledge on Developmental Challenges: Understand common developmental delays and disorders, and learn strategies for identifying and supporting individuals who may face these challenges.
- Holistic Approach to Development: Learn about the interconnectedness of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development, enabling a more holistic approach to working with individuals across the lifespan.
- Increased Empathy and Insight: Develop a deeper understanding of the various factors that influence human development, allowing for more empathetic interactions with clients, patients, students, and colleagues.
- Evidence-Based Insights: Study well-established theories and the latest research in human development, giving you a strong foundation in evidence-based practices for supporting growth and well-being.
- Flexibility and Accessibility: The 30-hour course is designed to be accessible and flexible, allowing professionals to enhance their knowledge without disrupting their existing commitments or career paths.
- Support for Lifelong Learning: This diploma is an excellent foundation for further study or professional development in the fields of psychology, education, healthcare, or social services, helping you stay current in a rapidly evolving field.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Human Growth and Development is designed for a wide range of professionals who work with individuals across different stages of life. This course is ideal for:
- Educators and Teachers: Those who work in early years education or with students at different levels and need to understand developmental milestones to tailor their teaching approaches.
- Healthcare Professionals: Nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, and other healthcare workers who interact with patients of various age groups and need to understand human development for better care.
- Psychologists and Counsellors: Professionals working in mental health or therapy who want to gain a deeper understanding of the developmental stages that influence behaviour and emotional well-being.
- Social Workers: Social workers who support families and individuals in different life stages, helping them navigate developmental challenges and transitions.
- Parents and Caregivers: Parents and guardians who want to understand the developmental needs of their children or those in their care to better support their growth.
- Human Resources Professionals: HR professionals interested in learning more about employee development, including the impact of life stages on workforce performance and wellbeing.
- Childcare Providers: Professionals working in daycare, after-school programs, or with children who need to understand early development to provide optimal care and support.
- Anyone Interested in Personal Growth: Individuals interested in learning more about human development and how it influences personal, social, and emotional growth throughout life.
This course is perfect for anyone who seeks to enhance their understanding of human development to provide better support, care, and guidance for people across the lifespan.
