Most people feel that they know something about the social world in which they live. But Sociology is a distinctive way of knowing and it is this unique way of thinking and doing that we will explore in this introductory unit. We will gain a sense of the forms of thought and practice that are foundational to the discipline – the theories and methods that sociologists have developed to enable them to understand, and perhaps intervene in, the issues of their time. Approaching these histories critically will be a key objective of this introductory unit. How have the preoccupations, but also prejudices, of the sociological tradition translated into sociological theories and methods? Students will also leave with a sense of some of the pressing problems that animate sociologists today – from the impact of technology on human sociality, to the legacy of colonialism, the changing character of 'the social' and the urgent need to rethink our relationship to the environment.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- gain an understanding of the foundations of the discipline of Sociology;
- evaluate the foundations of the discipline critically and in the context of decolonisation processes;
- evaluate the theories encountered in the course and assess their contemporary relevance;
- communicate evidence-based arguments that connect theoretical insights to empirical experiences; and
- discuss key themes, concepts and theories with your peers.
Indicative Assessment
- Sociological Observation Exercise (20) [LO 1,2]
- In Person Examination (40) [LO 1,2,3,4]
- Group Video Project (30) [LO 1,2,3,4,5]
- Seminar Participation (10) [LO 1,2,3,4,5]
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Workload
130 hours of total student learning time made up of a lectures, tutorials and student-led seminars, as well as independent student research, reading and writing.
Prescribed Texts
Not applicable
Preliminary Reading
All reading material will be available on Wattle
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 14
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
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