Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

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 unit 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 (on campus) or research paper (off campus) : 40%
Review essay (1000 words) : 30%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

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

Sociology

Prerequisites

SCY1801 or equivalent

Prohibitions

GSC2203, GSC3203, SCY3803