What factors affect one's cognitive ability? How has our understanding of cognition and intelligence changed in recent times? Can cognitive/intellectual development be enhanced with specific parenting and instructional techniques? How does one's ways of knowing change over time? These are but four of the questions that are addressed in this course. Issues related to thinking, understanding, and intellectual development will be explored from early childhood through adulthood. Recent research and current thought in the field will be analyzed and debated to try to gain insights into these issues as they relate to themes of social justice and equity, critical thinking, and leadership in education. Prerequisite: EDUC 222 highly recommended. May not be taken pass/fail.