Outcome Statement for Human Development Undergraduates
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Knowledge Acquisition and Application:
You will acquire and utilize knowledge and skills necessary for a professional
position or graduate /professional training in Human Development and
Family Studies. By the time you complete your education, you will:
• Master the concepts and theories
of human development and family systems
• Describe adaptations of individuals and families across the
lifespan
• Evaluate and apply appropriate theoretical perspectives to issues
of human development and family studies across the lifespan
• Use an ecological framework to understand the factors that contribute
to individual differences in development, including culture and time
• Establish a deep understanding of one or more developmental
periods with particular emphasis on the family as a context for lifespan
development
Research
You will understand and use methods of inquiry appropriate to Human
Development & Family Studies, including relevant quantitative or
qualitative analytic tools. By the time you complete your education,
you will:
• Apply the basic principles of
research design and methods by identifying a human development issue
and proposing a researchable question
• Identify appropriate methods
• Evaluate potential solutions or results
• Conduct research or gather data on researchable human development
questions
• Understand the strengths and weaknesses of the scientific process
for answering critical human development questions
Critical Thinking Skills
You will use acquired knowledge, skills, and creativity to identify
and solve complex human science problems. By the time you complete your
education, you will:
• Locate, attend to, consider,
question, and evaluate information and arguments from a variety of
sources (teachers, peer-reviewed journals, books, media, raw data)
• Create cohesive, persuasive arguments regarding human development,
family systems and behavior by evaluating, applying and integrating
appropriate information from various sources
• Articulate how developmental principles and research can be
used to explain social issues and inform policy
• Apply knowledge base to oneself, diverse groups and cultures.
• Construct concrete action plans to improve the human condition
Communication
You will communicate clearly and effectively using a variety of methods.
By the time you complete your education, you will:
• Communicate effectively in writing
using field specific terminology and conventions in a variety of forms
for appropriate professional audiences
• Speak effectively in formal settings
• Integrate technology and visuals or graphics in formal communications
• Demonstrate appropriate interpersonal communication skills in
professional settings
• Incorporate and draw upon multiple cultural perspectives in
written, oral and interpersonal communication
Personal Development
You will demonstrate a sense of responsibility to self, community, and
society. By the time you complete your education, you will:
• Demonstrate the ability to reflect
on the motivating forces of one’s own behavior and perceptions
• Practice systematic self-assessment and reflection
• Understand the limitations of one’s own knowledge base
• Understand the social–historical-cultural factors that
influence one’s knowledge
• Display high standards of integrity in personal and professional
settings
Professional Development
You will gain knowledge and practice regarding the ethical principles
and best practices in Human Development & Family Studies. By the
time you complete your education, you will:
• Conduct oneself as members of
the human service profession
• Demonstrate knowledgeable, reflective and critical perspectives
on professional contributions
• Demonstrate commitment to life-long learning.
• Construct an appropriate career path
• Engage in collaborative problem solving and effective team participation
• Act as informed advocates for sound human service policies and
practices
