Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - PSYC 250 D100

Introduction to Developmental Psychology (3)

Class Number: 3230

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Joanna Peplak
    jpeplak@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-3791
    Office: RCB 7321

  • Prerequisites:

    PSYC 102.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Considers the psychological and physical aspects of human development from conception through middle childhood. Topics include social, emotional, language, cognitive, perceptual and physical development.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course considers aspects of human development from conception to adolescence. Topics include social, emotional, language, cognitive, perceptual and physical development.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

By the end of this course, you will be able to:
(1) understand what development is and how children develop across a range of domains (e.g., social, emotional, cognitive, etc.),
(2) outline the theoretical perspectives and guiding themes in the field,
(3) think critically about theories, methods, and research in developmental psychology,
(4) describe empirical evidence and how it fits with current debates, and
(5) translate research findings for the general public.

Grading

  • Participation: 8%
  • Concept Practice: 12%
  • Mid-Term Exam: 25%
  • Writing Assignments: 30%
  • Final Exam: 25%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

A textbook is required for this course.

REQUIRED READING:

Siegler, Robert S., Saffran, J., Eisenberg, N., and Gershoff, E. (2024). How Children Develop (Canadian 7th ed.). Macmillan Higher Education Learning.

ISBN: 9781319456559 (digital) *epub + achieve

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.