Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit aims to introduce students to the ways in which sociological knowledge can be used to understand how social movements and collective action facilitate or inhibit social change in a wide variety of societal contexts. In order to achieve this, the unit focuses on key concepts and theories in the social movement literature and then seeks to apply these to specific local, national and international campaigns where people are either striving to achieve social change or are mounting counter movements against change.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit students will:

1. Be able to identify major sociological issues relating to contemporary social movements and change.

2. Be able to describe and recognise the different theories and concepts through which sociologists explain social movements and change.

3. Understand the causes and consequences of change initiated by interest groups, NGOs and movements in society.

4. Have developed the capacity to recognise and critically assess debates concerning various social movements in Australia and elsewhere.

5. Have gained skills in developing and presenting an argument, including the ways in which sociologists acknowledge the ideas of various researchers in the field.

Assessment

Written work: 60% (2500 words)
2 hour Exam: 40%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

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

Sociology

Prerequisites

Two second-year sociology units

Prohibitions

SCY2814