This chapter offers a thorough guide to the techniques and instruments used to understand how the brain develops in humans. It covers key learning goals, such as examining how behaviors change as people grow, how studying typical and atypical development inform each other, and what we can and cant learn about brain structure using non-invasive brain scans. It also explains the two main ways we measure brain function. Starting with some back history on methodological tools, this chapter sets the stage for deeper insights into brain development and its impact on our abilities. It highlights the dynamic nature of the field, influenced by both animal studies and rapidly evolving and improving analytical tools and methods. With a focus on methods for studying children, we explore more advanced techniques used in different age groups. Furthermore, this chapter stresses the importance of a scientific mindset and adaptability when new evidence comes to light. It serves as a vital reference for understanding the tools and approaches in developmental cognitive neuroscience.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of epidemiology and public health. In addition to the intensified health challenges of the pandemic, the constantly changing environment, global warming, increased international travel, globalisation, and social, economic and political changes all contribute to the fluctuating nature and patterns of disease and health issues. To better address the complex interrelationships of various determinants and health/illness outcomes, multidisciplinary efforts, including epidemiology, are required to protect and promote the population’s health. Epidemiology uses quantitative methods to collect and analyse data to investigate disease occurrence and possible causes of disease in order to find solutions to health problems in different populations. This chapter introduces the basic concepts in and use of epidemiology, the common epidemiological study designs and the quantitative measures used to describe the health status of populations and identify potential determinants of ill health. It also draws on examples of international and Australian research and health data to strengthen the theoretical concepts and principles introduced.