Australia

This course examines the development of pre-adolescent children's thinking abilities. Particularly, students explore the significance of cognitive, neurological, and neuropsychological factors in typical and atypical development. Current research on developmental plasticity and sensitive periods in development are reviewed. Special attention is paid to the prenatal and postnatal development of the central nervous system, as well as the impact of neurological insult on children’s cognitive development. Of particular interest are the challenges associated with assessing the changing nature of children’s cognitive competencies (executive functioning, reasoning, working memory, theory of mind, attention, planning and strategic skills), as well as how these are manifest in children with specific disorders (ADHD) or with particular physical difficulties (deaf and blind children). Special attention is paid to the development of language, reading, number, and mathematical abilities, focusing specifically on the diagnosis and remedial interventions of children with dyscalculia and dyslexia.

In this course, students analyze the content and quality of their own diet and make informed decisions concerning foods, nutrients, and supplements to optimize their daily nutrient intake and physical performance. Nutrition is important for physical growth and health throughout the human lifespan, during pregnancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and senior years. It is a crucial factor in sports performance and athletic endeavors, as food is used as fuel for physical activity. Diet and nutrition affect body composition, the day to day functioning of the human body, and brain and cognitive performance.