SS6086 - Living Theory (2025/26)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2025/26 | ||||||||
| Module title | Living Theory | ||||||||
| Module level | Honours (06) | ||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 15 | ||||||||
| School | School of Social Sciences and Professions | ||||||||
| Total study hours | 150 | ||||||||
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| Assessment components |
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| Running in 2025/26(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) | No instances running in the year |
Module summary
In this module we will explore and apply important theories and concepts in contemporary social theory for the purpose of enhancing our understanding of the world we live in. Through the work of contemporary social thinkers, the module will examine and test out the ways in which social theories and concepts are ‘live’ – not dead or irrelevant abstractions of little consequence, but a living and crucial part of how people understand reality and navigate its vicissitudes. This will support your learning in other modules, and post-university, by deepening your understanding of key theoretical frameworks for analysing social phenomena and enhancing your ability to apply them.
Prior learning requirements
None
Available for Study Abroad? YES
Syllabus
Subject areas in this module may include:
- Role of power and knowledge systems of various kinds in producing the contours of society.
- Techniques and effects of discipline, control and surveillance on behaviour manipulation.
- Subjectivity, capitalism and precarity.
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
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.
Learning outcomes
After studying this module students should be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key concepts and approaches in contemporary social theory.
- Demonstrate an ability to critically analyse and apply key concepts and approaches in contemporary social theory.
- Develop effective research and written communication skills.
- Engage in dialogue and debate on sociological issues whilst acknowledging and respecting a diversity of values and world views.
Assessment strategy
Assessment 1 (formative, 0%): Literature review (800 words)
Assessment 2 (summative, 100%): Essay (2500 words)
The assessment chosen for this module aims to develop the core research 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.