Teaching Human Development: Current Theoretical Deficits and a Theory-Enriched “Models, Metaphors, and Maps” Remedy

Abstract

Contemporary social work education in the area of human development is anemic. There is too little coverage of the theoretical frameworks, models, theorists, competencies, and functions necessary to prepare students for careers that apply developmental science. This premise is supported by a content analysis of 12 human development textbooks and 44 course outlines. Three major strategies—teaching by models, teaching by metaphors, and teaching by maps—are described as methods for enriching human development education. Four alternatives for including theoretical content are also offered.