Introduction to human growth and development

Timetable

Lectures: 15 h, 2 h a week plus 1 h last week
Seminars: 15 h, 2 h a week plus 1 h last week

The timetable is to be announced before class starts.
The course will be conducted for a maximum of 2 seminar groups.

Module aim (aims)

The course will aim to provide essential knowledge about human growth and biological development, the evolutionary and neurobiological basis of human development, as well as the factors that can affect it. Students will also have the opportunity to acquire practical skills in assessing developmental age in children.

Pre-requisites in terms of knowledge, skills and social competences (where relevant)

There are no special formal prerequisites. Course applicants must be able to read and discuss scientific literature in English. Basic knowledge of human anatomy and physiology will be helpful.

Syllabus

List of topics:

1. From conception to birth - the story of how we develop in the womb (2 hrs lecture, 2 hrs seminars)
2. Human life history - stages of human biological development from an evolutionary perspective (2 hrs lecture)
3. Genetic, epigenetic, and hormonal bases of human growth and development (2 hrs lecture, 2 hrs seminars)
4. Factors affecting human growth and development (2 hrs lecture, 2 hrs seminars)
5. Methods of assessing developmental age in children (2 hrs lecture, 4 hrs seminars)
6. Development of the human brain from conception to adulthood (2 hrs lecture, 2 hrs seminars)
7. Role of gut microbiota in children's growth and development (2 hrs lecture)
8. Theories of aging (2 hrs seminars)

Evaluation: Written test

Reading list

Cameron N, Shell L. 2021. Human Growth and Development, 3rd edition, Academic Press
Stinston S, Bogin B, O'Rourke D. 2012. Human Biology: An Evolutionary and Biocultural Perspective, 2nd edition, Wiley-Blackwell

 

The most recent relevant scientific publications will be selected and given to students during classes.