module specification

This module introduces students to fundamental and essential concepts and theories of sociological thought and practice. It does this by exploring foundational thinkers and ideas of sociology, both in the historical context of their development and contemporary applications. The discipline of sociology is often said to be a discussion of modern times (Giddens), but what is meant by ‘modern’ and 'modernity’? What are the various transformations referred to by these terms and how have they shaped our current society, locally and globally? By inquiring into these and related questions students will be provided with a grounding in the key processes of modernity that informed and continue to influence contemporary life. Insofar as the discipline of sociology itself emerged through the investigation of these processes, students will also be introduced to canonical figures, theories and concepts of sociology.

None
Available for Study Abroad? YES

Subject areas in this module may include:

● Processes of transformation involved in the phenomenon/period of modernity and their relevance for both sociology and contemporary society.
● Analyses of modernity by foundational sociological thinkers and their relevance for both sociology and contemporary society.
● Struggles against subjugation during modernity (e.g. against colonialism, racial injustice and oppression of women) and their relevance for both sociology and contemporary society.

Teaching methods are tailored to key aspects of the learning situation such as content, task and learner characteristics. In common with the ethos and practice of the School, the teaching and learning methods used to achieve the module’s learning objectives are varied. Delivery of the module will occur through a combination of lectures, seminars and workshops. The lecture programme provides the framework for knowledge learnt through the course of the module, with seminars and workshops providing a forum for active student participation to deepen and expand learning. Students are expected to complement formal teaching with self-directed reading (with the aid of reading lists) and the completion of specified assignments. The module will also promote, and rely on, the student’s self-management and proactive approach to their learning.

There is an emphasis upon the link between teaching and research so that research by staff provides informs the teaching on some topics covered in the module, resulting in research-led teaching. The module will be supported with Weblearn pages where all relevant teaching materials can be accessed, including audio/visual material, notes, presentation slides and literature.

After studying this module students should be able to:

1. Understand and analyse key concepts and approaches in sociological theory.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of key processes of modernity.
3. Apply knowledge gained of key concepts and processes of modernity to the critical analysis of contemporary society.
4. Develop effective written and verbal communication skills.
5. Engage in dialogue and debate on sociological issues whilst acknowledging and respecting a diversity of values and world views.

Formative: Oral presentation (10 min)

Summative: Essay (2000 words) -100%

The assessment chosen for this module aims to develop the core verbal and written communication skills of students – both of which will be crucial for the success of students in the remainder of their studies and beyond.

● Emirbayer, M. (2003) Emile Durkheim: Sociologist of Modernity. Malden: Blackwell.
● Engels, F. (1845) The Condition of the Working Class in England.
● Fanon, F. (1961) Wretched of the Earth. New York: Grove Press.
● Kalberg, S. (2005) Max Weber: Readings and Commentary on Modernity. Malden: Blackwell.
● Marable and Felber (2013) The Portable Malcolm X Reader. New York: Penguin.
● Marx and Engels (1848) The Communist Manifesto.
● Mohanty, C. (2003) Feminism Without Borders: Decolonizing Theory, Practicing Solidarity. Duke University Press.
● Nehring, Daniel (2013) Sociology: An Introductory Textbook and Reader. New York: Routledge.
● Wager, Peter (2012) Modernity: Understanding the Present. Cambridge: Polity Press