WEEK 1 DISCUSSION

Pick two items from the following list and do them. Be sure to complete all parts of whichever items you choose and be sure to provide appropriate links so other students can access the videos, articles, etc. about which you are posting. Respond to at least 3 posts made by others. At least two of your responses should be to students who chose different items than you did. Please note that you may not post something that has already been posted by another student, such as a video, article, etc. For a post or response to count it must be a minimum of 125 words.
Your first post is DUE by Thursday at midnight and your last post is DUE by Sunday at midnight. This discussion board is worth 40 points. Please note that these due dates will be the same every week for the duration of this course.
Main posts and responses should include references as appropriate.

Note: Find additional Technology Support for creating presentations, videos, podcasts, etc. under the Course Information tab.

Here are the options:
1. Discuss the following:
a. What is your opinion regarding the influence of nature vs. nurture on development?
b. Which do you think has more influence on development and why?
c. Give at least 2 reasons that support your opinions and provide at least one reference.
d. Also, discuss at least one aspect of your own development that you think was more influenced by nature and one that was more influenced by nurture.

2. Post a journal article that describes and discusses the difference-equals-deficit error. Discuss at least 2 things you learned from this article. Also provide at least two examples from any current events or from your own life of how this error happens, and describe and discuss at least one way people can reduce making this error.

3. Find, or create, and post a video that discusses and describes one of the grand theories. Describe and discuss at least 2 things you learned from the video, and give your opinion of its validity in modern society. Give at least 2 reasons for your thinking and provide at least 1 example to prove your points.

4. Find, or create, and post a video or podcast that discusses and describes one of the newer theories. Describe and discuss at least 2 things you learned from the item you posted, give your opinion of its validity in modern society. Give at least 2 reasons for your thinking and provide at least one example to prove your points.

5. Create a presentation (i.e. Powerpoint, Prezi, pictograph, etc.) that provides information about genetic counseling and discusses the pros and cons. Provide at least two pros and two cons and use at least one outside reference. You should have at least 4-5 slides/sections to your presentation, plus a slide for references.

6. Discuss the following:
a. How might cultural values and mores affect development? Discuss at least 2 ways and provide examples for each.
b. Pick a specific culture and discuss one aspect of development that is unique to that culture. Provide at least 1 example.
c. Discuss one way in which you think your culture has influenced your biosocial, cognitive, and/or psychosocial development, and provide at least one example.

7. Prepare a short graphic report (e.g. using charts, graphs, pictographs, etc.) that demonstrates the important aspects of critical times during fetal development. You should include at least 3 graphic items with explanations and use one outside reference.

8. Write and post a report on a genetic disorder of your choice. Make sure the paper is at least one whole page and use at least one outside reference.

9. Pick any topic covered in this week’s reading which interests you and post a journal article, video, or podcast about the topic. Discuss why you find the topic to be interesting and describe and discuss at least 2 things you learned from the item you posted. Also, discuss at least one way the information you posted may be useful to parents, teachers, or yourself.