Introduction to Sociology
SO1310/1311 Introduction to Sociology (10 ECTS credits)
Lecturer(s): Dr Daniel Faas and Dr Elaine Moriarty
Module Content/Outline:
This module introduces students to the distinctive questions that sociologists ask about human society, and the theories and concepts used in the search for answers. It examines major themes such as multiculturalism and citizenship; migration and immigrant incorporation; racism, identities and education; the changing role of families; the changing nature of work; the emergence of knowledge economies; network societies; social inequalities and change; gender; the social construction of reality; and classical social theory. The themes are pursued in relation to Ireland, Europe and processes of globalisation.
Learning Objectives:
Students successfully completing the module should be able to:
- demonstrate a general knowledge of Sociology as a discipline, outline the chronology of the main periods of development of human society, and recognise the canonical theorists referred to in the module;
- discuss and engage in key sociological topics such as migration, education, identities, inequalities, gender, organizations and networks, and explain why these themes have attracted the interest of sociologists and what the main challenges are;
- outline the main arguments of key social theorists and key ideas and required material from readings featured in the module;
- identify and apply sociological theories to real world social phenomena, particularly the case of Ireland and assess the strengths and weaknesses of the selected theories in relation to particular aspects of Irish society
- articulate an informed and independent argument in essays, discussions and examination questions;
- compare and contrast the main quantitative and qualitative methods including questionnaires and focus groups and their potential roles in the research process;
- recognise which methods to use in research situations and explain the reasoning for that selection.
Lectures &Tutorials/ Contact hours:
Two lectures and one tutorial per week. Workload: Lectures: 44 hrs; Tutorials: 22 hrs; Exams/assignments: 44 hrs; Self-study: 140 hrs. Total: 250 hours.
Recommended Texts / Key Reading:
The main textbook recommended for purchase is:
- Macionis J. and K. Plummer (2008) Sociology: A Global Introduction, Harlow: Pearson Education/Prentice Hall Europe (4th edition).
All other resources (i.e., journal articles and book chapters) will be on reserve in the library and/or on Blackboard in folder SO1310/ 1311. The Blackboard folder is updated regularly (http://mymodule.tcd.ie/)
Assessment
Essay (20%)
Annual exam (80%)
Attendance at tutorials is compulsory. Failure to attend at least half of the tutorials will automatically result in a 10% (one full grade) deduction from the overall module grade.
Date for submission: December 2013 (essay)
Penalties for late submission: Without an authorised extension, the mark given will be lowered by one grade