Provides a basic understanding of child development theory and research, as well as specific knowledge about the development of children during the early and middle childhood "stages," specifically from ages 3 years to 8 years. A major emphasis will be the application of theory and research from the field of educational psychology to an understanding of how young children learn and achieve academically. Because the course will address the developmental and academic functioning of children with and without disabilities, a particular focus will be on individualization.