Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2009 - 2010

Module Title	Social and Economic Studies
Module Code	CM107
School	School of Communications
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Dr Des McGuinness	Office Number
Level	1	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None

Module Aims

This module introduces students to key theories and concepts by which sociologists and political economists have sought to define and understand the main features of modern societies. The module is organised around three integrated strands: (i) the development of capitalist modernisation, Fordism and the emerging disciplines of political economy and sociology; (ii) an understanding of society as structure and agency, as state and civil society; (iii) post-Fordism, globalisation, neo-liberalism and the growth of contemporary social movements: gender, race and sexuality.

Learning Outcomes

A basic understanding and introduction to some key concepts employed by sociologists and political economists in analysing modern societies. While tracing these theoretical perspectives from the period of the Enlightenment the Learning Outcomes of the module will focus on the importance of sociology and political economy to the contemporary understanding of communications, journalism and multimedia.

Indicative Time Allowances
	Hours
Lectures	24
Tutorials	0
Laboratories	0
Seminars	12
Independent Learning Time	39

Total	75
Placements
Assignments

NOTE

Assume that a 5 credit module load represents approximately 75 hours' work, which includes all teaching, in-course assignments, laboratory work or other specialised training and an estimated private learning time associated with the module.

Indicative Syllabus

Understanding Economics Modern Society and the Social Sciences Society, Community and the Individual Imperialism to Globalisation The State and Civil Society The Sociology of Work and Social Stratification The Sociology of Families Gender and Sexualities Race and Ethnicity Ireland: socio-economic analyses

Assessment
Continuous Assessment	100%	Examination Weight	0%

Indicative Reading List

Hilary Tovey and Perry Share A Sociology of Ireland Ellen Woods The Origins of Capitalism Anthony Giddens Sociology Stuart Hall et al's Formations of Modernity Michael Barratt Brown Models in Political Economy Michael Haralambos & Martin Holborn Sociology: Themes and Perspectives Joseph Lee Ireland: 1912-85 Kevin Whelan The Tree of Liberty

Programme or List of Programmes

BSSA

Study Abroad (DCU Business School)

BSSAO

Study Abroad (DCU Business School)

CCS

BA in Contemporary Culture and Society

BA in Communication Studies

ECSA

Study Abroad (Engineering & Computing)

ECSAO

Study Abroad (Engineering & Computing)