Undergraduate Module Descriptor

SOC1020: Contemporary Society: Field and Case Studies

This module descriptor refers to the 2021/2 academic year.

Module Aims

This module is designed to complement the stage one modules that are concerned with theoretical and/or methodological approaches to sociology. Introducing specialist fields in sociology by connecting them to general developments is intended to further develop a critical understanding of the transformation of modern societies to the present day, with a particular focus on the last three decades.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here – you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the specific fields within the sociology of contemporary society that are the subject matter of this module;
2. demonstrate analytical understanding approaching diverse and distinct developments in contemporary society;
Discipline-Specific Skills3. demonstrate the ability to relate a body of Sociological knowledge to a specific context;
4. think clearly and argue logically about contemporary societies; expressing sociological ideas both orally and in writing;
Personal and Key Skills5. demonstrate the ability to undertake independent study; and
6. demonstrate the ability to select appropriately from a range of suggested material and to present key arguments clearly.

Indicative Reading List

This reading list is indicative - i.e. it provides an idea of texts that may be useful to you on this module, but it is not considered to be a confirmed or compulsory reading list for this module.

Delanty, G. (2010) Community, 2nd edition, London: Routledge

Weeks, J (2003) Sexuality (2nd Edition). London: Routledge

Cockerham, W.C. (2011). Sociology of Mental Disorder, 8th edition, London: Prentice Hall

Haugaard, M. (2002) Power: A Reader, Manchester: Manchester University Press

Sassatelli, R. (2007) Consumer Culture: History, Politics and Theory, London: Sage

Suchman, L. (2007) Human–Machine Reconfigurations: Plans and Situated Actions, revised edn, New York: Cambridge University Press

Martell, L. (2010) The Sociology of Globalisation, Cambridge: Polity

Della Porta, D. and Diani, M. (2006) Social Movements: An Introduction, 2nd edition, Oxford: Blackwell