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 discipline of Sociology. Sociology enables us to understand and critically explore the social world in which we live. The module introduces students to the distinctive questions that sociologists ask about human society, and the theories, concepts and analytical tools used in the search for answers. Students are encouraged to develop a ‘sociological imagination’ in order to understand the inter-relationships and dependencies between the individual, society and wider global processes.
The module considers the nature of sociology in terms of its historical origins, its key theoretical traditions and the role of research in analysing social issues. 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. The themes are pursued in relation to Ireland, Europe and processes of globalisation. In particular the rapid social and cultural change that has occurred in Irish society in recent decades is examined.
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, social stratification, class, gender, organizations, networks and community, and explain why these themes have attracted the interest of sociologists and what the main challenges are;
- compare and contrast different theoretical perspectives on key dimensions of society;
- 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;
- compare and contrast the main quantitative and qualitative methods in the research process;
- articulate an informed and independent argument in essays, discussions and examination questions;
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 1,500 words (30%)
Annual exam 3 hours (70%)
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