Module Code - Title:
SO4001
-
INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
This module aims to introduce students to the subject matter of contemporary sociology. It will familiarise students with the key concepts used within sociological analysis and demonstrate, using illustrative materials, the uses and importance of sociological analysis in the modern and post-modern world.
Syllabus:
An introduction to the sociological perspective
What is sociology and what do sociologists do?
The development of sociology
The sociological imagination
An introduction to sociological theory
Agency and Structure
Culture, Norms and Values
An introduction to structural functionalist theories
An introduction to conflict theories
An introduction to interaction theories
An introduction to feminist theory and post-modernism
An introduction to sociological research
The ethics of social research
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Discuss the applications of sociology.
Differentiate between established sociological perspectives.
Define key sociological concepts.
Describe research tools used by sociologists.
Explain key ethical principles employed in sociological practice.
Employ appropriate sociological literature.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
N/A
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
This module will be taught through a combination of lecturers, tutorials and self directed learning.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
N/A
Prime Texts:
Fulcher, J. and Scott, J. (2007)
Sociology, 3rd ed., Oxford:
, Oxford University Press
Bruce, S. and Yearley, S. (2006)
The Sage Dictionary of Sociology
, London: Sage
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Module Leader:
James.Carr@ul.ie