This assignment will help you gain a greater in-depth understanding of a child/adolescent development theory (SLO #1); articulate the usefulness in understanding development by applying a developmental theory to a real-world scenario that might arise in the field (SLO # 2); analyze and evaluate the merit of the theory through university-level academic writing (SLO # 3).

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply your knowledge of a developmental theory to a real-world setting. In a paper that is approximately 3 pages, you will demonstrate your a) advanced understanding of the theory and b) ability to think critically about its relevance to a potential future profession, and c) use at least 4 relevant academic sources to support your ideas.

Criteria 1: Identification and Analysis of a Developmental Theory

In your own words, describe the major key terms and assumptions of a theory that has been covered, focusing on those that you will be applying to the rest of the paper (i.e., in Section 2). Note: Your task here is to illustrate your ability to identify aspects of the theory that are relevant to the profession, rather than providing a general overview of the theory’s main points.

Identify the theory’s developmental domain (e.g., cognitive, social/emotional) and general theoretical viewpoint (e.g., psychoanalytic, cognitive, learning, social learning, contextual/systems).

Motivate why you have chosen this theory.

Criteria 2: Application of Theory to Practice

• Describe a profession in the field (e.g., teacher, professor, social worker, school counselor, occupational therapist, child life specialist) you are interested in pursuing in a way that would be understandable to most readers (e.g. pretend you are explaining this profession to a family member).

Apply the theory to the profession. Describe at least two examples/situations of how you as the professional could utilize/demonstrate their knowledge of the theory in your tasks/responsibilities (e.g. How might a teacher use Vygotsky’s theory in the classroom?).

Criteria 3: Evaluation and Reflection

• No theory has all the answers. Consider the theory’s limitations in general and as they apply to the profession (e.g. What is this theory not taking into consideration? How could it be improved? Is there another theory that compliments this one?).