Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives The objectives of the subject are to enable students to read a range of sociological material in order to understand the major sociological perspectives; present a well constructed, written argument which meets the academic conventions of stating propositions, presenting evidence for them, considering alternative interpretations and forming a conclusion; develop the ability to critically evaluate the mass media; understand the influence of the family and education on the life chances of individuals; explain and use basic sociological concepts, such as agency, social structure, socialisation, social construction, class, power, culture and gender and acquire a knowledge of sociology that is an adequate foundation for further study.
Synopsis This subject is designed to give students a broad introduction to sociology. The following topics will be covered: (a) introducing sociology, including the origins of the discipline, the nature of sociological knowledge, and the sociological imagination; (b) the mass media as a source of cultural information and an important resource to the community as well as to individuals and social groups; (c) the family as the foundation of identity and a major influence on the social construction of life chances; (d) the importance of schooling and education in shaping the life chances of individuals; (e) sociological theory and social action, using such concepts as social structure, socialisation, class, culture, role, gender, and power to explore functionalist, conflict and interpretive perspectives in sociology.
Assessment Assignment (1000 words): 20% + Assignment (2000 words): 40% + Final Examination: 40%