Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit provides a critical introduction to the processes, actors and ideas that underpin life in a globalised world. Students are introduced to historical, political and sociological perspectives that assist in making sense of global transformations and their effects upon people and their everyday experiences. This unit engages with questions such as: How does globalization shape everyday experiences and aspirations? In what ways does it contribute to social identities, divisions and forms of belonging? What strategies are pursued by different groups within the global community for creating a more just world? What role do ideas, values and belief systems play in shaping these strategies?

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to demonstrate:

1. Familiarity with the ways in which history, politics and sociology make sense of the actors and dynamics that comprise globalisation;
2. Application of political, historical and sociological concepts to issues of global concern;
3. Understanding of key ideas and debates concerning the evolution, features and social impacts of globalisation;
4. Skills in the written presentation of an argument, including the ways in which scholars incorporate and acknowledge the ideas of others. discussing ideas, values, systems, actors and social configurations and their importance for globalised societies;
5. A critical, questioning approach to reading/assessing scholarly material that provides a sound basis for further study in the disciplinary areas of history, politics and sociology.

Assessment

Assignment 1 (1000 words): 25%
Assignment 2 (1500 words): 35%
Examination (2 hours): 40%

Contact hours

Two x 1 hr lecture/week
One x 1hr tutorial/week

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

History-politics
Sociology

Prohibitions

HPL1504, SCY1802