Registry
Module Specifications
Archived Version 2021 - 2022
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Description This module focuses on the sociological analysis of crime and its representation in news and current affairs media. The first half of the module examines and evaluates key sociological perspectives that offer explanations for the existence of crime and also examines the key institutions that deal with crime in Irish society. The second half of the module examines the portrayal of crime by the media and evaluates whether such representations are a true or distorted reflection of social reality and what effects such representations might have on public opinion and our political system. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning Outcomes 1. Identify and articulate the key characteristics of crime in contemporary Ireland. 2. Identify and articulate the causes and consequences of crime. 3. Identify and articulate the links between social class, types of crimes and the law making process. 4. Review, appraise and interpret the ways in which crime is differentially dealt with by society. 5. Evaluate the manner in which the media report and comment on crime and justice issues. 6. Evaluate the possible effects of crime reporting on public opinion. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and
Learning Activities Week 1: Crime in Ireland: Characteristics & MeasurementThe key characteristics of crime in Ireland including the problems surrounding its measurement.Week 2: Blue-Collar Crime & its ConsequencesThe links between social-deprivation and property crime and how society deals with such crime.Week 3: White-Collar Crime & its ConsequencesThe concept of white collar crime, how it differs from blue collar crime and how it is treated differently by society.Week 4: Drugs & CrimeThe relationship between drugs and crime, particularly on whether prohibition reduces or increases crime.Week 5: Irish Prison SystemExamining and evaluating the Irish Prison System.Week 6: Policing SocietyExamining and evaluating policing within Irish society.Week 7: Reading WeekReading Week - Students Revise for In-Class Test.Week 8: Assessment WeekIn-Class Multiple Choice Quiz / Exam Briefing.Week 9: Crime JournalismThe evolution of crime journalism in Ireland.Week 9: Crime Journalism & Public OpinionThe relationship between crime journalism and public opinion on crime and justice issues.Week 11: Crime Journalism & SourcesThe relationship between crime journalists and their sources.Week 12: Crime Journalism & TrialsHow trials are reported on and how same might impact on public opinion. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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