PED3701
Assignment 2
Due 30 July 2025
, PED3701
Assignment Two: In-Depth Case Study Analysis
Student Name: [Your Full Name]
Student Number: [Your Student Number]
Course: Psychology of Education
Question 1(a): Influence of Developmental Domains on Thabo’s Learning (8
Marks)
Thabo Molefe's academic and social experiences are shaped by interrelated
developmental domains that influence how he processes learning, adapts to challenges,
and interacts with his school environment. These include his physical, cognitive,
emotional, social, and moral development—all of which intersect within his unique
socio-cultural context.
1. Physical Development
At 16, Thabo is undergoing late adolescence—a stage characterised by significant
physical maturity, increased stamina, and hormonal changes. While Thabo is reported
to be physically healthy and active, his extended commute to school each day is a
concern. Long travel distances can cause chronic fatigue, reduce concentration during
lessons, and impair his ability to participate actively in class activities. A fatigued learner
may appear disinterested or inattentive, not because of a lack of intellectual ability, but
due to physiological exhaustion. Regular physical tiredness can also hinder participation
in extracurricular activities, which are essential for psychosocial development. In
Thabo’s case, the physical burden of daily travel potentially reduces his classroom
engagement and overall academic productivity.
2. Cognitive Development
Thabo demonstrates strength in subjects like Mathematics and Life Sciences, which
require logical thinking, structured problem-solving, and pattern recognition. However,
Assignment 2
Due 30 July 2025
, PED3701
Assignment Two: In-Depth Case Study Analysis
Student Name: [Your Full Name]
Student Number: [Your Student Number]
Course: Psychology of Education
Question 1(a): Influence of Developmental Domains on Thabo’s Learning (8
Marks)
Thabo Molefe's academic and social experiences are shaped by interrelated
developmental domains that influence how he processes learning, adapts to challenges,
and interacts with his school environment. These include his physical, cognitive,
emotional, social, and moral development—all of which intersect within his unique
socio-cultural context.
1. Physical Development
At 16, Thabo is undergoing late adolescence—a stage characterised by significant
physical maturity, increased stamina, and hormonal changes. While Thabo is reported
to be physically healthy and active, his extended commute to school each day is a
concern. Long travel distances can cause chronic fatigue, reduce concentration during
lessons, and impair his ability to participate actively in class activities. A fatigued learner
may appear disinterested or inattentive, not because of a lack of intellectual ability, but
due to physiological exhaustion. Regular physical tiredness can also hinder participation
in extracurricular activities, which are essential for psychosocial development. In
Thabo’s case, the physical burden of daily travel potentially reduces his classroom
engagement and overall academic productivity.
2. Cognitive Development
Thabo demonstrates strength in subjects like Mathematics and Life Sciences, which
require logical thinking, structured problem-solving, and pattern recognition. However,
