Adulthood, Aging, and Death: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Adulthood, Aging, and Death: Course Overview

Course Description

This course examines the developmental stages of adulthood, with a particular focus on aging and death. It covers the physical, cognitive, psychological, and sociocultural aspects of the aging process. The course also addresses the impact of aging on health, relationships, and society, as well as ethical and civic responsibilities related to end-of-life issues.

• Course Code: PSYC 2045

• Credits: 3

• Format: Online, Asynchronous

• Instructor: Dr. Linda Sefcik

• Term: Fall Semester, 2025

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Define the scientific research methods used to study adult development, aging, death, and dying.

• Describe the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes that occur during adulthood and aging.

• Compare and contrast historical and contemporary perspectives on adult development.

• Apply theories and research to current issues of adulthood, aging, and death.

• Analyze the effects of cultural, environmental, and personal factors that affect adult development.

• Describe different contexts within which adult development occurs.

• Describe the processes and cultural variations of death and dying.

• Analyze ethical dilemmas concerning a variety of end-of-life situations.

• Apply ethical standards and responsibilities of citizenship in relation to social and civic responsibility.

Course Structure and Schedule

Weekly Topics and Assignments

The course is organized into weekly modules, each focusing on a specific aspect of adulthood, aging, or death. Assignments include readings, quizzes, discussion questions, and a research paper.

Week	Topic/Assignment	Due Date
1	Introduction, Syllabus Scavenger Hunt, Check In	August 31
2	Introduction to Adult Development, Quiz: Chapter 1	September 7
3	Physical Changes, Quiz: Chapter 2	September 14
4	Health and Health Disorders, Quiz: Chapter 3	September 21
5	Cognitive Abilities, Quiz: Chapter 4	September 28
6	Discussion Question #1, Discussion Response	October 3
7	Social Roles, Quiz: Chapter 5	October 12
8	Social Relationships, Quiz: Chapter 6	October 19
9	Work and Retirement, Quiz: Chapter 7	October 26
10	Personality, Quiz: Chapter 8	November 2
11	Discussion Question #2, Discussion Response	November 7
12	The Quest for Meaning, Quiz: Chapter 9	November 16
13	Stress, Coping, and Resilience, Quiz: Chapter 10	November 23
14	Death and Bereavement, Quiz: Chapter 11	November 30
15	The Successful Journey, Quiz: Chapter 12, Discussion Question #3, Discussion Response	December 7
16	My Virtual Child/My Virtual Life	December 7
17	Check In #2, Research Paper Due	December 14, December 17

Key Course Components

Required Materials

• Computer with word-processing software (Microsoft Office Suite or equivalent)

• Access to D2L (Desire2Learn) online learning platform

• Textbook: Bjorklund, B. R., & Earles, J. L. (2020). The Journey of Adulthood (9th ed.). Pearson. (eBook and Revel access included in Digital Access program)

Assessment and Grading

Grades are based on a combination of quizzes, discussion questions, assignments, and a research paper. The grading scale is as follows:

Grade	Points	Percentage	Achievement
A	549 to 610	90% to 100%	Superior
B	488 to 548	80% to 89%	Above Average
C	427 to 487	70% to 79%	Average
D	366 to 426	60% to 69%	Below Average
F	0 to 365	0% to 59%	Failure to Achieve

Major Assignments

• Quizzes: 12 chapter quizzes, lowest 2 scores dropped

• Discussion Questions: 3 major discussion questions with responses

• Research Paper: 1 major research paper (150 points)

• My Virtual Child/My Virtual Life: Interactive simulation assignment

• Syllabus Scavenger Hunt and Check-Ins: Early course engagement activities

Key Topics Covered

• Adult Development: Theories, research methods, and stages of adulthood

• Physical and Cognitive Changes: Age-related changes in health, cognition, and abilities

• Social Roles and Relationships: Family, work, retirement, and social networks

• Personality and Meaning: Personality development, quest for meaning, and resilience

• Death and Bereavement: Cultural, psychological, and ethical aspects of dying and loss

• Ethical and Civic Responsibility: Application of ethical standards to end-of-life issues

Course Policies and Procedures

• Participation: Students are required to do their own work and maintain academic integrity.

• Attendance: Regular engagement in online activities is expected.

• Late Work: No late papers will be accepted.

• Academic Honesty: Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited.

• Technical Requirements: Students must have access to a computer and reliable internet.

Additional Info

• Support Services: Students have access to tutoring, technical support, and accommodations for disabilities.

• Contact: Instructor office hours are available both in-person and virtually.