This paper explores several theories of human development, with particular attention to the development of social interaction. Part 1 compares and contrasts major developmental theories, including those of Freud, Erikson, Piaget, Kohlberg, Kegan, Fowler, and Selman. From birth to 1 year, infants are laying the foundation that will guide their…

This paper explores the nature of the curriculum within learning communities, specifically, learning communities in leadership preparation programs. It also addresses how cohorts of learning communities operate effectively as cohesive groups, and how they, in turn, promote the enhancement of individuals. The process curriculum advocated in this…

Discusses the conceptual foundations of intergenerational programming. Identifies theories focused on (1) individuals and groups in interactive contexts and (2) individual development. Notes that few program evaluation reports have a conceptual or theoretical basis. (Contains 63 references.) (SK)

States that early models of professional development acknowledged that personal development was an antecedent to professional development. Offers a paradigm and process through which educators may become more practiced observers of their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to enhance their personal lives and the quality of their…

Object relations theory holds that a constant and reciprocal interaction exists between past and present interpersonal dealings which, in turn, influence the development of representations. Such representations help individuals assimilate and understand immediate experiences. This paper examines the findings of recent empirical studies designed to…

A life-span human development model of learning in early childhood is presented. Learning is viewed as a human enterprise which spans the entire lifetime and involves interaction among people. The bounds of interaction are derived from philosophy and from the biological and social behavioral sciences. (JN)

Qualitative research is based on the direct observation of human activity and interaction in an ongoing, naturalistic fashion. Qualitative researchers are concerned with the internal life of schools; what is really occurring in classrooms, corridors, cafeterias, and playgrounds. Qualitative researchers look at what people ordinarily take for…

The paper explores sex-role determinants of interpersonal interaction and reviews various theories of equity in human interaction. Equity is interpreted as occurring in human interaction when all participants in a relationship receive equal outcomes relative to their inputs. The document is presented in four major sections. Section I reviews…