This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The module will be divided into six main topics of study which are intended to challenge the student to ask questions about their social world and to explore their own individual and cultural experiences within a wider context. In particular, students are encouraged to examine their common-sense assumptions by 'thinking sociologically'.
To do this requires not only the development of a sociological imagination but also the use of appropriate methodology and theoretical approaches. This module will introduce these skills to students through a consideration of a number of topics such as: the sociological imagination; families and intimate relationships; the transformation to the age of modernity/postmodernity; sex, gender and gender relations; crime and deviance; globalising processes and culture; poverty in Britain.
Autumn Start
Total contact hours: 96
Private study hours: 204
Total Study hours: 300
Spring Start
Total contact hours: 100
Private study hours: 200
Total Study hours: 300
£29
Main assessment methods:
Assignment 1 (1000 words) (15%)
In Course Test 1 (45 minutes) (15%)
Assignment 2 (1500 words) (25%)
Seminar participation (5%)
Examination, (2 hours) (40%)
JYA English Plus alternative assessment in lieu of exam:
Written Assignment (1,500 words)
Reassessment methods
Reassessment Instrument: 100% coursework
Required reading
• Giddens, A. & Sutton, P. (2017) Sociology (8th ed.). Cambridge: Polity
Recommended reading
• Bilton, T. (2002) Introductory Sociology (4th ed.). Basingstoke: Palgrave.
• Fulcher, J. & Scott, J. (2011) Sociology (4rd ed.). Oxford: OUP
• Haralambos, M. & Holborn, M. (2013) Sociology: Themes and Perspectives (8th ed.). London: Harper Collins
• Scott, J. & Marshall, G. (2009) A Dictionary of Sociology (4th ed.). Oxford: OUP
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Describe the main features of the discipline of sociology
Investigate and analyse key sociological arguments
Formulate ideas in a systematic way based on sociological theories in both spoken and written form
Think analytically and critically regarding sociological source material
Use sociological theory and research in the context of debates on social issues
Look at social trends relevant to an understanding of British society
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
integrate into a British academic environment
exercise fluency and confidence in the use of the English language, orally and in writing
speak in public confidently and lead seminars
exercise skills of time management and organisation through complying with methods of assessment, deadlines, homework, seminars and tutorials
use available literature without plagiarising
structure information and develop analytical skills, argumentation, critical thinking, reasoning and reflecting
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