Definition of Developmental Education

Developmental education is a field of practice and research within higher education with a theoretical foundation in developmental psychology and learning theory.

It promotes the cognitive and affective growth of all postsecondary learners, at all levels of the learning continuum. Developmental education is sensitive and responsive to individual differences and special needs among learners.

Developmental education programs and services commonly address academic preparedness, diagnostic assessment and placement, development of general and discipline-specific learning strategies, and affective barriers to learning.

Developmental education includes, but is not limited to: all forms of learning assistance, such as tutoring, mentoring, and supplemental instruction, personal, academic, and career counseling academic, advisement, and coursework.

            --National Association of Developmental Education (2003)