Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

In this subject students will begin the process of learning about the concepts and approaches used by sociologists to analyze and gain an understanding of the social world. Students will learn how these concepts are used examine particular aspects of social life. The specific topics considered may vary from year to year. Among these might be whether our ideas of masculinity and femininity have changed, the significance of ethnic identity in today's world, the underpinnings of racism or how theoretical perspectives can help us to think about social problems.

Objectives

After completing this subject, students will have

• Knowledge of some of the key concepts and perspectives used in sociological analysis.
• Understanding of how sociologists approach the link between the individual and society.
• An understanding of how structural factors influence the ways in which people experience everyday life.
• Skills in presenting coherently argued and well organized essays on sociological topics.

Assessment

Library project: Written work 55%
Participation: 5%
Exam: 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Anna Halafoff

Contact hours

Two 1-hour lectures and One 1-hour tutorial per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Sociology
Australian studies