Field Experience in Human Development Studies

3 credits · Peabody College - Professional

Field Experience in Human Development Studies (HDS) is designed to furnish HDS students with the practical knowledge, skills, and experiences needed for successful entry into employment in public and private nonprofit and for-profit organizations, agencies, businesses, and institutions. It builds on the leadership and communication skills learned and practiced in HDS required courses and is designed as a bridging experience to the work world. Field experiences provide valuable work experience and exploration of interests within diverse contexts that inform future personal and professional choices. The overarching goal of the field experience is to facilitate professional and personal growth and emphasis is placed on advancing professional skills, self awareness, and general competencies needed for ethical, multicultural practice. The course is structured to help link theory and current issues to your professional development and work in diverse settings. Learning will take place through a 135 hour in the field experience, supplemented by monthly class meetings, completion of key assignments, presentations, discussion of assigned readings, self-reflection, feedback, and supervision. Student performance will be evaluated throughout the field experience, including a formal evaluation at completion by the field supervisor and Vanderbilt faculty supervisor. [3]