This unit examines the various stages of adolescent development and the factors that hinder or support this development. It also examines the many challenges and issues facing adolescents today. The unit will also examine how different perspectives and worldviews of development influences the meaning and response to adolescence. Attention will be given to various cultural differences particularly focussing on the understanding of human development from a Indigenous perspective. Particular emphasis will also be given to asking what does a Christian perspective of life contribute to understanding and responding to this stage of life. It also examines schools and classroom strategies that are best practice for supporting students through these stage of development and links them to learning theory and investigates best learning strategies for adolescence. Topics: * Physical and brain development factors * Psychological and Social aspects * Cognitive aspects of development * Non Western cultural variations focussing on Indigenous youth * Spiritual and Moral developments * Dealing with diversity – variations due to development delay, trauma * Dealing with and understanding peer pressure, risk taking and particular issues of ICT * Working with Support services