Pageof 5Field Experience Paper 2: 30 pts Parts: Part 1 = Qualitative interview of middle or older adults (age 50+) Part 2 = Writing of a 2-page paper identifying 4 distinct developmental psychology co
Field Experience Paper 2: 30 pts
Parts: Part 1 = Qualitative interview of middle or older adults (age 50+)
Part 2 = Writing of a 2-page paper identifying 4 distinct developmental psychology concepts and how they relate to your interview.
Goal: To provide students with real-world application of developmental psychology concepts by conducting interviews with older adults, enabling them to integrate their own observations with current research and textbook knowledge to deepen their understanding of aging and development.
Components:
1. For the first part of the assignment, identify a middle or older adult to interview. This can be a family member, friend, or someone in your community. Ensure they are willing to participate and have time for the interview. Use the provided list of suggested interview questions. You’re also welcome to include your own based on the themes of the assignment (e.g., life span development, socioemotional changes, cognitive shifts, etc.).
During your interview, take notes or record the conversation (with permission). Ask follow-up questions to clarify or explore their responses further. You do NOT need to submit your recording and/or notes- these are just for your use. *Suggested interview questions are located at the end of this document.
After the interview, reflect on what you learned about the individual's experiences and perspectives. Identify connections between their responses and developmental psychology concepts. Consider how their experiences align with or differ from the theories, research, and examples discussed in your textbook and lectures.
2. For the second part of the assignment, create your interview write-up. Detail the events of your interview and relate their responses to the concepts covered in class.
Draw upon class readings and discussions to explain what you observed and heard. Be specific in identifying concepts and theories from class. For example, did your interviewee show signs of generativity? How so? Do they have any regret orientation for things they did in the past? Note these are ideas of what to draw from; select your own concepts from what you’ve learned in class.
Your paper should include theoretically relevant material from class, as well as your own personal observations and insights of how well principles of developmental psychology were demonstrated during the interview. Make sure you include at least 4 relevant and distinct theoretical points.
Format: Write in your own style; double spaced, 11 pt font. Adhere to the supplied template. Failure to adhere to the proper format may result in an automatic 0.
Other considerations:
Each concept must be distinct. For example, wrinkles and bald spots are not two separate concepts, they are ONE concept (physical changes in older adulthood).
Draw connections and be specific in your observations. For example, “My interviewee says he is tired a lot now” is not detailed enough, nor does it draw connections to the concept.
An “A” paper will likely be beyond 2 pages.
Utilize the provided template (below; also posted on Canvas separately); suggested questions are at the end of this document, following the template.
Introduction
(Under this heading discuss who you interviewed, including first name or first initial only- no last names or other identifiable information. Include their age and any other characteristics you feel are pertinent)
Developmental Psychology Concepts and Theories
Concept 1: (name the concept here- example: Selective Optimization with Compensation)
(Under this subheading provide interview responses/evidence of your first concept)
Concept 2: (be sure to name the concept here)
(Under this subheading provide interview responses/evidence of your second concept)
Concept 3: (be sure to name the concept here)
(Under this subheading provide interview responses/evidence of your third concept)
Concept 4: (be sure to name the concept here)
(Under this subheading provide interview responses/evidence of your fourth concept)
Summary
(Under this heading summarize your overall experience)
Potential Interview Questions
Note that you do not have to use these questions specifically. However, they are designed to elicit the most applicable responses for the assignment.
Life Span Development
Looking back on your life, what are some of the most significant milestones or turning points?
How have your goals and priorities changed over the years?
Cognitive Development
Have you noticed any changes in how you process information or remember things?
What strategies do you use to keep your mind active and engaged?
Socioemotional Development
How have your relationships with family and friends evolved over time?
What has brought you the most emotional fulfillment in your life?
How do you cope with challenges or losses that come with aging?
Identity and Purpose
How would you describe the legacy you want to leave behind?
Do you feel your sense of identity has shifted as you've aged? If so, how?
Health and Well-being
How do you maintain your physical and mental health?
What role does diet, exercise, or other health habits play in your daily life?
Cultural and Historical Influences
How have societal changes over your lifetime impacted your perspective on life?
What technological or cultural shifts have made the biggest impression on you?
Erikson's Stages of Development
Erik Erikson described a stage of “integrity vs. despair” in later adulthood. Do you feel you’ve achieved a sense of integrity or completeness in life? Why or why not?
Wisdom and Advice
What advice would you give to younger generations about life, happiness, or success?
If you could go back in time, what would you tell your younger self?
Intergenerational Relationships
How do you feel about the way younger and older generations interact today?
What role do you think older adults should play in society?
Hobbies and Leisure
What hobbies or activities bring you the most joy at this stage in your life?
Have you picked up any new interests or skills in later adulthood?
