module specification

This module introduces students to the key concepts and theories relating to the social construction of gender and sexuality and their application to a range of social sectors and issues in the UK and abroad. This module addresses the ways in which gender and sexuality are both constitutive of the social and are established through social structures, institutions and interactions. Drawing on intersectional approach, this module will explain the ways in which theories of gender and sexuality inform the sociological study of the family, work, health, education, crime, the welfare state and politics, media and the body. To this end, the approach to gender and sexual discrimination and inequalities will be made in connection to other forms of social identity, including class, race and ethnicity.

The aims of the module are to:

• Introduce and critically analyse key concepts in the sociological theories of gender and sexuality;
• Understand how the notions of gender and sexuality impact all levels of social structures, social relations and social identities;
• Address the intersections between gender, sexuality and other forms of social identity and difference, including class, race, ethnicity.
• Consider the conceptual framework for the persistence of discrimination and inequalities on the basis of gender and sexual orientation.

Available for Study Abroad? YES

This module will first introduce key concepts in the sociological study of gender and sexuality in contemporary society. To this end, you will begin by looking at a range of theoretical approaches to understanding the operation of gender and sexuality at the levels of social structures, social relations and social identities. You will then look at the intersections between gender, sexuality and other forms of social identity and difference, including class, race, ethnicity, but also variations over a traditional/narrow minded approach to gender and sexual division through the lens of masculinities, homosexuality, and transgender/transsexuality. Finally, you will look at the impact of traditional approaches to gender and sexuality across a range of social sectors and social issues leading to gender and sexual discrimination and inequalities impacting on the social perception of domestic and sexual violence.

Learning and teaching will develop in weekly three-hour sessions face-to-face, comprised of a weekly lecture followed by exercises and reflexive discussion in seminars. Seminars will be informed by reading and seminar questions for discussion in small groups and with the whole group.

Learning will be supported by the module Weblearn site with all teaching materials – reading, video materials, recorded lectures and assessment details. Students will use a variety of teaching materials, including a wide range of relevant research, including reports, newspaper articles, video materials and links to relevant web sites. This module will encourage students to reflect on their views on theoretical approaches to gender and sexuality and to critically analyse knowledge in a reflective way, seeking to make linkages and deepen their understanding. Reflective activities will be encouraged through class-based activities, including debate and discussion on the topics explained.

Lecture notes and seminar exercises will be uploaded prior the session and will be used as the initial basis for addressing a theme. Yet, students will be encouraged to go beyond these prior each session to make the most of it. Moreover, students will be advised to engage fully with feedback opportunities on both assessments which will help them reflect and develop their learning.

On successful completion of the module students will be able to:

● LO1 Identify and explain a range of sociological concepts and theories addressing gender and sexuality.
● LO2 Demonstrate an understand how gender and sexuality play a part in shaping specific social sectors and social interaction.
● LO3 Critically evaluate and apply appropriate concepts and theories of gender and sexuality to the analysis of specific contemporary social issues and controversies.
● LO4: Demonstrate an understanding of the persistence of gender and sexual discrimination and inequalities.

There are two pieces of coursework for this module.

1. A 500-words article review, worth 25%, exploring and evaluating key concepts and theories of gender and sexuality. The article can be chosen either from the reading list in the module or an article of the student’s own choice in agreement with the module leader. The review will need to be uploaded via Turnitin.

2. A 2,500 word essay, worth 75%, which requires students to critically consider a contemporary debate or issue in a specific social theme by applying relevant theories of gender and sexuality explained in class. Students can choose their theme from a list of essays uploaded in weblearn.

The assessment criteria for the essays will be discussed in detail in class, and will expect the student to: present an approach for understanding theories, concepts, and debates; apply these concepts to case studies; convey arguments cogently, using their own thoughts, analysis and wording; support all claims and assertions with evidence, drawing from readings and case studies examined in the module; engage in use of appropriate academic sources and reference as assigned; and write with due regard to syntax, grammar, and expected academic standards

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