Human Growth and Lifespan Development

Unit code: AHE1107 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
N/A
Overview
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Overview

This unit forms a basis for the applications of knowledge in growth development and ageing in the field of Exercise and Sport Science. It aims to develop an integrated understanding of physical growth and the development of motor characteristics of humans from childhood into adulthood, including the genetic and environmental factors that interact to influence these processes and the deterioration in physical processes and motor characteristics as they age. The unit focuses on development across the lifespan to give a balanced perspective on age-related changes in human motor function.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Identify and describe the stages of growth and development across the lifespan, from reproduction through to death;
  2. Identify and apply knowledge on contraindicated exercises for particular stages of human growth, maturation and development, including common injuries and conditions during these stages of growth and development;
  3. Describe the difference between chronological and biological age, and the implications of these two factors across the life span;
  4. Identify and describe the structural, physiological and motor and psychosocial development changes across the lifespan and the effect, and timing of exercise and physical activity to elicit change;
  5. Apply evidence-based physical activity and exercise principles affecting growth, development, pregnancy and ageing; and,
  6. Illustrate the social determinants of health that affect growth and development.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 20%
Multiple choice quizzes: 3 progressive assessments at the end of weeks 1, 2 & 3.
Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 25%
Report based on supplied client condition
Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 35%
Three short reports on supplied clients (2 reports in groups, 10% each; 1 report individual 15%)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 20%
Paired presentation highlighting testing and training one of the clients discussed in assessments 2 and 3

Required reading

ESSA's student manual for health, exercise and sport assessment.
Coombes, J., & Skinner, T. (2020).| ESSA
Human motor development: A lifespan approach
Payne, G., & Isaacs, L. (2020).| e-book

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Applied Movement Sciences/Master of Physiotherapy
HCPT | Bachelor degree | Duration: 4.5 years
Bachelor of Exercise Science (Clinical Practice)
ABHE | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years
Bachelor of Exercise Science (Sport Practice)
ABHD | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years
Bachelor of Sport Science
SBSA | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years
Bachelor of Sport Science (Human Movement)/Bachelor of Psychological Studies
SBHP | Bachelor degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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