Accessibility statement

Reconsidering Society: Learning to Think Sociologically - CED00195C

« Back to module search

  • Department: Centre for Lifelong Learning
  • Module co-ordinator: Miss Rachele Salvatelli
  • Credit value: 10 credits
  • Credit level: C
  • Academic year of delivery: 2021-22
    • See module specification for other years: 2023-24

Module summary

The aim of this module is to provide students with a working knowledge of the core themes and debates relevant to contemporary sociology. The study of some of the most relevant theories of the twentieth century - such as feminism, gender theory, intersectionality, social identity theory etc. - will allow students to increment their understanding of societal issues, as well as their awareness as social actors. Through the use of modern examples, students will develop the capability to think sociologically, i.e. to adapt their analytical skills to contemporary issues.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2021-22

Module aims

Sociology is an incredibly broad discipline that allows any individual to pursue their interests and learn about the state of the society in which we live, work and play. This module aims to share this rich understanding of our current epoch with a new audience by outlining some of the key themes and debates in social theory, as well as cultivating a sociological imagination by questioning the parts of society that we take for granted. The module intends to indicate the wide range of political, social and cultural phenomena that we encounter in our everyday lives.

Module learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

  • Criticise and question what may go un-criticised and un-questioned
  • Have a working knowledge of the core themes and debates in sociology
  • Understand the necessity of a sociological imagination in contemporary local and global society.

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Essay		 N/A 100

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Essay		 N/A 100

Module feedback

The tutor will give regular individual verbal and written feedback throughout the module on work submitted.

The assessment feedback is as per the university’s guidelines with regard to timings.

Indicative reading

  • Bagnall, Gaynor, Brian J. Longhurst, and Mike Savage. Globalization and belonging. Sage Publications Limited, 2004.
  • Bauman, Zygmunt, and Tim May. Thinking sociologically. Blackwell publishers, 2001.
  • Bourdieu, Pierre. Distinction: A social critique of the judgement of taste. Harvard University Press, 1984.
  • Marx, Karl, and Friedrich Engels. The communist manifesto. Yale University Press, 2012.
  • Mills, C. Wright. The sociological imagination. No. 204. Oxford University Press, USA, 2000.
  • Žižek, Slavoj. First as tragedy, then as farce. Verso, 2009.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.