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PSYED505 – Language Development and Language Disorders

MSc in Educational Psychology – Distance Learning

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Core Course

PSYED505 – Language Development and Language Disorders

Course Unit Code: PSYED505

Type Of Unit: Distance Learning

Level of Course Unit: Postgraduate

Year of Study: Year 1

Semester: Semester 2

Number of ECTS Credits: 10

Class Contact Hours: 12

Mode of Delivery

Distance Learning

Prerequisites

No

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This course introduces students to the interdisciplinary field of Language Development and Language Disorders, integrating cognitive neuroscience, psychology, and education. Students will explore international literature on language development and disorders, engaging in discussions that highlight the importance of this knowledge in supporting effective learning processes. They will also evaluate how insights into language development can inform teaching strategies and methodologies.

The Study Guide supports students in their study process and serves as a reference point between the course educator and the students. It complements the required literature and additional assignments assigned throughout the semester.

Students will engage in 12 thematic units requiring critical reflection, debate, and question formulation, with opportunities for discussion during consultation meetings.

Each thematic section includes: Purpose, Theoretical Background, Learning Objectives, Key Concepts, Useful Study Resources, Questions for Reflection and Critical Thinking, and Estimated Study Time.

General Objectives of the Course

This course addresses a wide range of topics including:

  • Language proficiency levels

  • Language disorders

  • Brain specialization in language

  • Bilingualism and multilingualism

  • Sign language as a tool for language proficiency

  • Teaching approaches based on brain development research

The aim is to enhance students’ understanding of language acquisition and language-related challenges.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to:

  • Understand the significance of language proficiency levels

  • Explore the specialized linguistic functions of the brain

  • Examine dyslexia and specific language impairment

  • Critically analyze whether existing educational programs align with knowledge on language development

  • Engage with international research literature on language development and disorders

Introductory Note

THEMATIC UNIT 1: Introduction to Language Development
THEMATIC UNIT 2: Language in the Brain
1st Tele-meeting

THEMATIC UNIT 3: Development of Phonological, Morphological, and Syntactic Proficiency
THEMATIC UNIT 4: Development of Proficiency in Semantics and Pragmatics
2nd Tele-meeting

THEMATIC UNIT 5: Language Development and its Relationship with Gestures
THEMATIC UNIT 6: Development of Writing Skills
3rd Tele-meeting

THEMATIC UNIT 7: Development of Reading Ability
THEMATIC UNIT 8: Bilingualism and Multilingualism
4th Tele-meeting

THEMATIC UNIT 9: Language Development and Sign Language
THEMATIC UNIT 10: Language and Speech Disorders – Dyslexia
5th Tele-meeting

THEMATIC UNIT 11: Language and Speech Disorders – Specific Language Impairment
THEMATIC UNIT 12: Language and Speech Disorders – Stuttering
6th Tele-meeting

Course Features

Tele-meetings via Microsoft Teams

Six two-hour tele-meetings will take place throughout the semester. These sessions facilitate discussion, clarification, and active participation.

Before each meeting, students must review the materials posted on the University of Limassol platform, complete reflection questions, and prepare any additional questions for the plenary discussion.

Assessment

  • 10% – Five interactive assessments (2% each)

  • 20% – Individual assignment

  • 20% – Group assignment

  • 50% – Final exam

All intermediate requirements must be completed to sit the final exam. A minimum overall grade of 55% is required to pass.

Readings

  • Levey, S. (2022). Introduction to Language Development. Plural Publishing.

  • American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed. Arlington, VA: APA; 2013.

Call Center

CYPRUS

GREECE

INTERNATIONAL

Request Information Request Information ⟶

Informed Consent Form

Dear Participant,

You are invited to participate in a survey as part of the DiFiCy – Digital Transformation and FinTech: Shaping Cyprus’s Economy research project which is implemented by the University of Limassol, PwC Cyprus and Unity Growth Limited.

The project is co-funded by the European Union within the framework of the Cohesion Policy Programme “THALIA 2021-2027” through the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) in Cyprus [Pr. number: EXCELLENCE/0524/0568].

The study has been approved by the National Bioethics Committee of Cyprus (Approval no.: EEBK EΠ 2025.01.19 )

This project explores digital transformation and FinTech adoption in Cyprus, with a particular focus on SMEs and the broader business ecosystem. It uses a mixed-methods research design, combining survey data with interviews and case study evidence to generate evidence-based insights for policymakers and businesses.

Before deciding whether to participate, please read the following information carefully.

Purpose of Participation

The purpose of this research is to better understand the drivers, challenges, and impacts of digital transformation and FinTech adoption in Cyprus. The findings aim to support evidence-based policymaking, strengthen business practices, and contribute to innovation and economic development.

Your participation involves the following:

Completion of this survey, which takes approximately 15 minutes.

Invitation to take part in an optional interview.

Contribution to a case study or discussion session at a later stage.

Your participation is entirely voluntary, and you are free to decline or withdraw at any time without any consequences.

If you wish to withdraw from the study after submitting your responses, you may do so by contacting the Project Coordinator.

Data Confidentiality and Usage

All data collected will be handled in strict accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Cyprus Data Protection Law (125(I)/2018).

Your data will be treated confidentially, pseudonymised and anonymised, and no personally identifiable information will be disclosed. Data will be securely stored and accessed only by authorised members of the research team. In some cases, qualitative data may be processed using machine learning techniques, such as keyword identification or pattern detection, strictly to support analysis; however, all interpretation and conclusions will be made by the researchers.

Aggregated and anonymised findings derived from the data (e.g., statistical summaries, graphs, and thematic insights) may be used for dissemination activities, including scientific publications, policy reports, infographics, and training materials. These outputs will not contain any information that could directly or indirectly identify participants or their organisations.

Anonymised data may be shared publicly after a 24-month embargo period, while raw or sensitive data will not be publicly available. Access to raw or sensitive data will be granted only upon justified request and consortium approval.

Your participation in this study does not involve any risks.

On the contrary, your contribution may help improve digital and FinTech policies, support SME development and innovation strategies, and enhance the overall business environment in Cyprus.

Contact Information

If you have any questions, concerns, withdraw requests or complaints, please contact the Project Coordinator, Dr. Snezana Eminidou. Please include “DiFiCy Survey” in the subject line.

Email: snezana@uol.ac.cy

Phone number: +357 22462228

Partnership:

Thank you for your valuable contribution to this research.

The project is co-funded by the EU within the framework of the Cohesion Policy Programme “THALIA 2021-2027” through the Research and Innovation Foundation. [Pr. no. EXCELLENCE/0524/0568]. The content reflects the views of the author(s) only. The European Commission and the Managing Authority of THALIA 2021–2027 cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.