Related Course/s:

A unit of study in the Arts and Social Science suit of Majors.

Aims & Objectives:

After completing this unit of study, students are expected to have an understanding of:

• A range of key sociological concepts
• How these are applied in social analysis.

Students are expected to develop their skills in:

• Distinguishing between the major theoretical perspectives and research methodologies employed by sociologists.
• Critically evaluating published work
• Undertaking library and other research.
• Communicating their findings orally and in written form.

Teaching Methods:

Lectures (2 hours), tutorials (1 hour) and independent study

Assessment:

• Class work such as work sheets and peer evaluation (10%)
• Tutorial presentation (5%)
• Study skills exercise (15%)
• Essay (35%)
• Examination (35%)

Generic Skills Outcomes:

The graduate attributes which relate to this unit help to produce graduates who are:

• Capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas
• Entrepreneurial in contributing to innovation and development within their business, workplace or community
• Effective and ethical in work and community situations
• Adaptable and able to manage change
• Aware of local and international environments in which they will be contributing (eg socio-cultural, economic, natural)

Content:

Topics include:

• The history of the discipline
• Sociological theory and research methodology
• Society and culture
• Global stratification
• Systems of social stratification (including: Class and status; Sex, gender and sexuality; Race and ethnicity; and Age and aging)

Reading Materials:

Macionis, J & Plummer, K , Sociology: A Global Introduction, 3rd ed, Prentice Hall, New York, 2005.