ATS1366 - The individual and society - 2019

The unit examines both the place of the individual in society, and the social structures that shape the opportunities and inequalities experienced by individuals. We do this through three rotating modules of study that may include: race, digital social media, popular culture, health, the environment and sustainability, families, and youth. While the topics may vary, at the core of the unit is a focus on structure (the persistent arrangements of our society) and agency (the power of an individual to act within society). We will also closely examine social inequalities within the specific modules of study, with the key question being: who benefits from the existing social order? This unit complements and builds on the introduction to sociology unit (ATS1365) but is also independent, and does not require previous study in sociology.

On successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:

1. describe and discuss a range of social structures, and identify instances of inequality within these structures;
2. analyse current social problems from a sociological perspective;
3. apply sociological theories, concepts, and evidence to sociological questions;
4. develop evidence-based arguments around sociological concerns that engage with and evaluate relevant research.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Sociology