Introduction to Social Theory (U00927)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 8 ? Acronym : EDU-1-IST

It is intended that this half course will introduce students to a range of social science disciplines, specifically the disciplines of sociology, psychology, politics and, in so doing, seek to demonstrate the contested nature of social scientific theories and core concepts. A primary intention is to illuminate the ways in which particular disciplines interpret aspects of the social world, to problematise such interpretation and thus seek to enhance understanding. It will be contended that theoretical analysis relating to the area of social existence will serve as a useful basis for further study and, ultimately, for the field of practice. Crucially, identification and utilisation of contemporary social issues affecting individuals and communities will form the basis of the focus with different theoretical positions being applied to a given issue. In this way course participants will begin to appreciate the utility of theory to their own construction and understanding of the social world.

Entry Requirements

? This course is not accepting further student enrolments.

? Costs : Purchase of course reader

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Education, (The Moray House School of Education, Schedule C)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 1st year

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 11 weeks

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Thursday	14:00	15:50	Central

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

- Understand relationships between the individual, community, state and society at the national and global level;
- identify and distinguish between a range of social theories which seek to enhance understanding of human behaviour;
- develop awareness of the contested nature of social theory and of the disciplines from which such theories derive;
- demonstrate an understanding of the desirability of adopting multidisciplinary understandings in order to enhance practice.