SCY2803

Sociology of Children ( 6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Marianne Robinson

Offered:
Gippsland First semester 2005 (Day)
Gippsland First semester 2005 (OCL)
Singapore First semester 2005 (OCL)

Synopsis: This unit examines the position of children in the social structure of Australian society. It covers the major institutions that shape the experience of childhood and current social concerns about the position of children. Major topics include gender socialisation, children's position within the family and the society, theories of parenting, children's rights, and the child and the state. Students' work in the subject will progress from a review of everyday knowledge of childhood to the development of a critical understanding of the social construction of childhood.

Objectives: On successful completion of this subject students will: 1. Be able to describe the position of children in Australian and other societies 2. Have critically examined beliefs about children and child raising practices; 3. Have engaged in both independent and cooperative work to develop an understanding of the social construction of childhood.

Assessment: Assignment (1500 words): 30% + Seminar presentation or group project (2000 words): 40% + Review essay (1000 words): 30%

Contact Hours: 2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

Prerequisites: SCY1801 and SCY1802 or equivalents

Prohibitions: GSC2203, GSC3203, SCY3803