Psychology Unit Catalogue

BIOL0011: The biosphere
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To provide a global perspective of the communities and ecosystems of the world and the role of these systems in the flow of energy and matter. After taking this course the student should be able to:
* identify the main flows of energy through the biosphere
* understand how minerals cycle in the environment and how soils form
* appreciate the main features of aquatic environments and terrestrial biomes
* have an awareness of the effects that humans have on the environment
Content:
The flow of energy through the biosphere; the global biogeochemical cycles; soils and aquatic environments; the major terrestrial biomes(tundra, northern coniferous forests, temperate deciduous forests, temperate grasslands, and tr opical forests). The impact of humankind on the environment, with particular emphasis on pollution.

BIOL0012: Ecology & evolution
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To provide a broad introduction to key concepts in ecology and evolution. To approach issues in ecology and evolution in a rigorous, cohesive way that will provide the students with a c onceptual framework that will help them to examine other areas of biology in a fuller context of evolution and ecology. To provide a firm foundation for more detailed study within the specific fields of evolution and ecology later in their course. It aims to introduce students to the unique position of ecology and evolution in the biological sciences; why these disciplines pose unusual challenges such as huge time scales and an attendant paucity of experimental information; why ecology and evolutio n tend to be analytical rather than experimental sciences; reasons why these are theory driven sciences and the special role of mathematical models in these disciplines. After taking this course the student should be able to:
*outline certain key principles in evolution and ecology
*demonstrate an understanding of the unique position of evolution and ecology in the biological sciences
*demonstrate an understanding of the logic of the arguments used in the construction of simple mathematical models for population growth, competition and predator prey relationships
*synthesise evidence of many kinds that animal, fungal and plant communities have evolved in highly structured ways
*show some appreciation of the role of ecological and evolutionary thinking in areas such as conservation and biodiversity
*have some basics skill in obtaining, processing and evaluating ecological data in laboratory and field based practicals.
Content:
Key concepts in evolution, including the nature of evolutionary selection, including kin-selection, sexual selection and natural selection. Dynamics of ecological populations including field and laboratory examples and mathematica l models. Population growth, intraspecifc and interspecific competition and predator/prey relationships. The structure and development of plant, animal and fungal communities are also examined and evidence is described from studies of the limits of simi larity, island biogeography and food webs.

BIOL0040: Concepts in ecology & evolution
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre BIOL0012
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To develop an understanding of the nature of selection; stability and instability in living systems; the parallels and disparities that exist between pattern generating processes operat ing across and within kingdom boundaries, in relation to development and behaviour; the role of self-organisation in evolution; population dynamics and conservation; behavioural ecology and optimal foraging theory. After taking this course the student should be able to:
*utilise concepts from natural selection theory, kin selection theory, optimisation theory, behavioural ecology, community biology, ecological genetics and non-linear systems theory (including chaos theory) in understanding ecological and evolutionary issues
*understand the nature of probabilistic, deterministic and random processes, and discuss their role in ecology and evolution
* understand the role of self-organisation in social insects.
Content:
The role of selection in evolution; agents of selection; units of selection; selection and adaptation; selection and fitness; natural selection and kin selection; genetic drift. Stability and instability of living systems; concept s of niche; competition, symbiosis, ecological strategies and self/non-self. Conservation and habitat fragmentation; exploiter mediated co-existence. Optimality in ecology and evolution; optimal foraging theory; self organisation; division of labour and the super-organism; battle strategies in social insects.

BIOL0041: Spring field course
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Pre BIOL0012
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To introduce the student to natural habitats in ways that enable the students to recognise patterns of distribution and behaviour of organisms and to question the basis of these patterns and behaviours. To introduce the student to the use of appropriate sampling patterns, experimental design, data gathering and statistical analysis. After taking the course the student should be able to:
*appreciate how aspects of behavioural ecology and of community structure can be investigated
*understand how these behaviours and structure may have arisen and how they are maintained
*design and perform a short field-based investigation; analyse and graphically present data
*prepare a written report of field-based investigations.
Content:
Visit to ecosystem types of varying complexity and subject to different kinds of selection process, such as rocky shore, sand dune, coastal grassland, salt marsh, woodland, moorland and fresh water. Investigation of components of these ecosystem types including spatial distribution, size and age distributions, reproduction and behaviour. Each student designs and carries out a half-day and a two-day field-based investigation; a preliminary report of the two-day investigation is p resented as a short talk on the last day of the field trip; the data from the investigations are analysed and graphically presented using University computing facilities after the field trip. Students are required to make a financial contribution to the f ield course (currently £95)

BIOL0072: Biology as a world view
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX80 ES20
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To develop an understanding of the history of biological thought in western culture. To develop an understanding of the extent to which the biological world view reflects and shapes the broader western world view. To provide an introduction to debates conducted within the philosophy of science about the potential of science to obtain an accurate picture of reality; this debate is illustrated with a case study which looks at philosophic al and biological issues of the mind-brain problem. After taking this course the student should be able to:
*discuss the development of biological thought in ancient Greece, in medieval Europe and between the onset of the Scientific Revolution and the present
*debate problems associated with scientific methodology and discuss the implications for the biological world view of these problems.
Content:
Views of nature in ancient Greece, from presocratic philosophers to Plato, Aristotle and the neoplatonists, and in Europe from the medieval period to the present. Topics include: the nature of reality; what exists and why; the rel ationship between individuals, universals and classification. A critique of science which will include the following issues: how science is possible; how science identifies areas for study; the scientific approach, including the role of inductive and ded uctive reasoning, theory-ladeness and theory choice.

BIOL0074: The evolution of social behaviour
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX80 ES20
Requisites: Pre BIOL0040
Aims & learning objectives:
Aims: To develop an understanding of (a) key conceptual issues in the evolution of social behaviour; (b) why sociobiological issues, such as the nature nurture debate, have been, and will cont inue to be, controversial and (c) the ways in which evolutionary theories can be tested by experimentation. To develop skills in first: recognising and selecting key studies from the primary literature, and second, presenting a case study in the form of a short seminar, complete with summary sheets, in such a way as to highlight how key ideas have been tested and refined empirically. After taking this course the student should be able to:
*demonstrate an understanding both of the theories of social evolution and how such theories are tested and refined by observations and experiments
*discuss and synthesise results from a number of carefully selected case studies in such a way as to critically evaluate the pros and cons of different theories and to form some judgement about their validity
*present a clear concise and well focused short seminar on new topics drawn from the primary literature.
Content:
This course debates the hottest topics in the evolution of social behaviour in animals including Homo sapiens. These topics include kin selection, inclusive fitness theory, sexual selection, kin recognition, altruism, genet ic determinism, the evolution of co-operation and conflict, selfishness and spite and human sociobiology. This is a course based largely on seminars presented by students on the basis of their reading of primary publications, reviews and text book exampl es.

ECOI0008: The modern world economy 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Economics
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX70 OT30
Requisites:
Aims & Objectives: The aim of this Unit is to equip students with an historical, institutional and descriptive understanding of economic issues and institutions in a global context. The Unit is appropriate for specialist students of economics and will support and provide a context for first year units in introductory micro and macroeconomics. The Unit is also appropriate for non-specialist students, who may wish to take only one or two course units in economics, and will introduce them to some of the central principles of economics via the policy questions and institutional arrangements which confront modern economies.
Content:
Growth and development in the world economy since the Second World War; patterns of international trade and investment; the role of multi national corporations; employment and income distribution in the world economy; limitations o n national policy effectiveness; international economic institutions and the regulation of international trade, investment and finance. Key text: Peter Dicken, Global Shift

ECOI0009: The modern world economy 2
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Economics
Level: Level 1
Assessment: ES30 EX70
Requisites: Pre ECOI0008
Aims & Objectives: This Unit is a continuation from ECOI0008 The Modern World Economy 1. Its aim is to provide students with an understanding of the economic issues which have affected various regions of the world in the post secon d world war period. It is designed to be accessible to both specialist and non-specialist students of economics.
Content:
The course unit comprises three regional studies: the European Union, Transitional Economies of East and Central Europe, East Asia. European Union: The development of economic integration in Europe; static and dynamic effects of economic integration; trade creation and diversion and the economics of customs unions; factor mobility and the common market; fiscal and monetary harmonisat ion; optimum currency areas and the European Monetary System; the role of the European Central Bank and the problem of Europe-wide macroeconomic policy. Transitional Economies: Central planning, operation and failure; the state of transition today; expanding the European Union to embrace Central and Eastern Europe East Asia: Interpretations of the East Asian "miracle" (pre-1997); causes and consequences of the current crisis; longer term prospects for sustainable development. Key texts: D. Swann, The Economics of the Common Market James Forder, Both Sides of the Coin: The Arguments Against the Euro and EMU F. McDonald, European Economic Integration D. Dyker (ed), The European Economy D. Gros and A. Steinherr, Winds of Change Grahame Thompson (ed), Economic Dynamism in the Asia- Pacific K.S. Jomo (ed), Tigers in Trouble: Financial Governance, Liberalisation and Crises in East Asia

ECOI0023: Social change and development
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre ECOI0077
Aims & learning objectives:
Aim: To provide students with conceptual frameworks for understanding processes of social change (in a broad sense) in developing countries and to explore the role of "development" in that. Learning objectives: That students should understand the contributions of sociology and social anthropology to the understanding of processes of societal change in different developing regions. This Unit complements other units in the economics and politics of development and will broaden and extend the student's understanding of developing countries and the problems and challenges they face.
Content:
Structure and agency; conceptualising actors at the micro, meso and macro levels; globalisation and livelihood strategies; agrarian change: Africa, South Asia and Latin America; urban development and social capital. Key texts: D. Booth (ed), Rethinking Social Development N. Long and A. Long, Battlefields of Knowledge M. Hobart, An Anthropological Critique of Development

ECOI0077: Introduction to international development
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aim:The aim of the Unit is to give students an understanding of developing countries in the international order. By the end of the course unit students will have some knowledge of the main development paradigms and critical evaluation of them and a firm grasp of key issues in contemporary international development.
Content:
Introducing the main paradigms: Modernisation, Dependency, Globalisation and Sustainable Development; Defining development; Conceptualising and measuring poverty in developing societies; Development, Knowledge and Intervention; Development and the Environment. Key texts: S. Corbridge (ed) Development Studies: A Reader P. Preston Development Theory Diana Hunt Economic Theories of Development T. Allen et al Poverty and Development in the 1990s

ECOI0078: Developing countries in world politics
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: ES100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
Aim: to give students an introduction to the main personalities and events in the international arena which have contributed to the present position of developing countries in the current glob al order. Learning objectives: to ensure that students have an awareness of the differences and similarities of experience of developing countries in different regions of the world.
Content:
.The emergence of the League of Nations and the United Nations system; Bretton-Woods; Developing Countries in the Cold War; India and South Asia: Independence and Partition; Southeast Asia and Peasant Revolutions; African inde pendence and the South African liberation struggle; the Middle-East: Arab nationalism and oil wealth; Latin America: revolution and dictatorship. Key texts: Peter Calvocoressi World Politics Since 1945 Michael Howard (ed) The Oxford History of the Twentieth Century Hedley Bull and Adam Watson (eds) The Expansion of International Society

ESML0030: German written & spoken language 1A
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: German
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The unit pursues a dual aim. (1) To refresh and consolidate students knowledge and understanding of grammatical structures; to enable them to apply the acquired skills to the production of coh erent and fluent written composition; to introduce them to a variety of German texts dealing with appropriate contemporary issues. (2) To improve students communicative and listening skills (oral/aural) and to expand their vocabulary so that they are able to express themselves clearly in everyday as well as in academic contexts as appropriate; to enable students to formulate their own ideas and to interact effectively in German and to adjust flexibly to various situations by using a suitable register.
Content:
(1) In respect of i. the consolidation of German language structures: this unit focuses on the various classes of words, their declension and their function within the phrase/ sentence; ii. written communication: a variety of lingu istic skills are developed by means of translation into and from German and essay writing in German (2) Spoken language classes may consist of free discussions with the entire group, interactive exercises (e.g. role play, small-group discussions, one-to- one exchange of ideas). Austrian and German video material and newspaper articles form the basis for discussion and assessment, whilst improving awareness of contemporary life in the German-speaking world.

ESML0031: German written & spoken language 1B
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: German
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Pre ESML0030
Aims & learning objectives:
The unit builds on ESML0030, pursuing the same dual aim. (1) To refresh and consolidate students knowledge and understanding of grammatical structures; enable them to apply the acquired skill s to the production of coherent and fluent written composition; to introduce them to a variety of German texts dealing with appropriate contemporary issues. (2) To improve students communicative and listening skills (oral/aural) and to expand their vocab ulary so that they are able to express themselves clearly in everyday as well as in academic contexts as appropriate; to enable students to formulate their own ideas and to interact effectively in German and to adjust flexibly to various situations by usi ng a suitable register.
Content:
(1) In respect of i. the consolidation of German language structures: this unit focuses on complex grammar points and German syntax; ii. written communication: a variety of linguistic skills are developed by means of translation in to and from German and essay writing in German. (2) Spoken language classes may consist of free discussions with the entire group, interactive exercises (e.g. role play, small-group discussions, one-to-one exchange of ideas). Austrian and German video ma terial and newspaper articles form the basis for discussion and assessment, whilst improving awareness of contemporary life in the German-speaking world.

ESML0036: German written & spoken language 2A
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: German
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Pre ESML0031
Aims & learning objectives:
To build on knowledge (grammatical accuracy and range of vocabulary) and writing skills acquired in Year 1. Having successfully completed this unit, students should be able, at the appropriate level, to: translate texts (German to English); summarize English texts into German and write short essays expressing a personal opinion on a given topic.
Content:
German to English translation, English to German summarisation, German essay-writing in response to text-based questions.

ESML0037: German written & spoken language 2B
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: German
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX54 CW20 OR26
Requisites: Pre ESML0036
Aims & learning objectives:
To build on knowledge (grammatical accuracy and range of vocabulary) and writing skills acquired in Year 2 semester 1. Having successfully completed this unit, students should be able, at the appropriate level, to: translate texts (German to English) with an increased awareness of nuance of meaning; summarize English texts (as wide-ranging in topic and style as time and circumstances permit) into German and write short essays with good grammat ical awareness and fluency of style, and to translate a dictated English text into German.
Content:
German to English translation, English to German summarisation, German essay-writing in response to text-based questions; extempore German-to-English translation.

ESML0048: German written & spoken language 4A
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: German
Level: Level 3
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Pre ESML0037
Aims & learning objectives:
To refine students' ability to translate competently from German into English in a variety of contemporary registers. To develop their summarisation skills so that they are able to produce a précis in sophisticated German of a complex English text on a subject of broad contemporary interest. To enable students to write coherent, well-argued and grammatically correct essays in German in response to issues raised in complex German texts . To enhance students' knowledge of the spoken language acquired during their year abroad so that they are able to converse fluently on contemporary issues and deliver sophisticated oral presentations on topics of their choice.
Content:
Written language: (a) Translation from German into English is the focus of one of the two weekly hours. The main emphasis in this semester will be placed on dealing with texts written in more colloquial registers. (b) The second weekly hour is devoted to the production of German in summarisation and essay-writing exercises. In this semester particular attention will be devoted to developing essay-writing skills. Spoken language: The emphasis is on project work carried out both on a group and an individual basis, with the chosen topics of an appropriately complex and controversial nature.

ESML0049: German written & spoken language 4B
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: German
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX38 CW17 OR27 OT18
Requisites: Pre ESML0048
Aims & learning objectives:
To refine students' ability to translate competently from German into English in a variety of contemporary registers. To develop their summarisation skills so that they are able to produce a précis in sophisticated German of a complex English text on a subject of broad contemporary interest. To enable students to write coherent, well-argued and grammatically correct essays in German in response to issues raised in complex German texts . To enhance students' knowledge of the spoken language acquired during their year abroad so that they are able to converse fluently on contemporary issues and deliver sophisticated oral presentations on topics of their choice.
Content:
Written language: (a) Translation from German into English is the focus of one of the two weekly hours. The main emphasis in this semester will be placed on translating texts written in more formal registers. (b) The second weekl y hour is devoted to the production of German in summarisation and essay-writing exercises. In this semester particular attention will be paid to developing summarisation skills. Spoken language: As before, project work will be carried out both on a group and an individual basis. Additional emphasis will now be placed on developing students' presentational skills in preparation for their oral examination.

ESML0081: Russian written & spoken language 1A
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Russian
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To consolidate knowledge of basic grammar, broaden vocabulary and improve aural comprehension. To develop fluency in spoken Russian at the level of everyday conversation.
Content:
Prose and essay composition; translation into English; grammar revision; conversation. Students must be qualified in Russian to approximately A-level standard.

ESML0084: Russian written & spoken language 1B
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Russian
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Pre ESML0081
Aims & learning objectives:
To further consolidate knowledge of basic grammar, broaden vocabulary and improve aural comprehension. To further develop fluency in spoken Russian at the level of everyday conversation.
Content:
Prose and essay composition; translation into English; grammar revision; conversation.

ESML0089: Russian written & spoken language 2A
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Russian
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Pre ESML0084, Pre ESML0085
Students must have taken either ESML0084, or ESML0085. Aims & learning objectives:
To deepen knowledge of Russian grammar, expand lexis and develop translation skills in several registers. To give students practice in expressing themselves in writing. To improve aural comprehension and to begin t o develop fluency in spoken Russian at the level of everyday conversation.
Content:
Written Language: systematic review of Russian grammar with exercises and drills drawn from a variety of sources; translations into Russian and English with discussion of grammatical points, lexis etc. Essay writing in Russian wit h discussion of stylistic points and vocabulary. Spoken Language: small group conversation on a range of themes; role-playing; task-based use of audio-visual material. To assist vocabulary acquisition, work in written and spoken language will be organis ed around themes of geography & peoples and culture & recreation.

ESML0092: Russian written & spoken language 2B
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Russian
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX54 CW20 OR26
Requisites: Pre ESML0089
Aims & learning objectives:
To deepen knowledge of Russian grammar, expand lexis and develop translation skills in several registers. To give students practice in expressing themselves in writing. To improve aural comp rehension to the point at which the gist of a TV news item can be understood and to develop fluency in spoken Russian at the level of everyday conversation.
Content:
Written Language: systematic review of Russian grammar with exercises and drills drawn from a variety of sources; translations into Russian and English with discussion of grammatical points, lexis etc. Essay writing in Russian wit h discussion of stylistic points and vocabulary. Spoken Language: small group conversation on a range of themes; role-playing; task-based use of audio-visual material. To assist vocabulary acquisition, work in written and spoken language will be organis ed around themes of social issues, history and politics.

ESML0095: Russian written & spoken language 4A
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Russian
Level: Level 3
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Pre ESML0092
Aims & learning objectives:
To consolidate knowledge of Russian grammar, further expand lexis and further develop translation skills. To enable students to translate modern literary Russian and non-technical academic an d journalistic Russian, into English. To enable students to translate selected English passages into Russian, and to express ideas and arguments in writing. To improve fluency in spoken Russian.
Content:
Written Language: translation into and from Russian and discussion of grammatical points, lexis etc. Conversation and audio-visual classes. Spoken Language: discussion of selected topics on a range of themes (ecology, social issu es, feminism etc).

ESML0096: Russian written & spoken language 4B
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Russian
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX56 CW17 OR27
Requisites: Pre ESML0095
Aims & learning objectives:
To consolidate knowledge of Russian grammar, further expand lexis and further develop translation skills. To enable students to translate modern literary Russian and non-technical academic an d journalistic Russian, into English with minimal use of a dictionary. To enable students to translate selected English passages into idiomatic Russian, and to express complex ideas and arguments in writing. To develop fluency in spoken Russian.
Content:
Written Language: translation into and from Russian and discussion of grammatical points, lexis etc. Conversation and audio-visual classes. Spoken Language: discussion of selected topics on a range of themes (culture, politics in Russia etc).

ESML0410: Political ideologies
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 1
Assessment: ES50 EX50
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide a grounding in the study of political ideologies, namely the thought which has been central to modern political debate.
Content:
The lectures will focus on the main ideologies which have helped shape the modern world, together with more methodological debates surrounding the study of ideology. Lectures will include: what is 'ideology'?; liberalism; conservatism; Marxism; social democracy; nationalism; feminism; ecologism; and the 'end of ideology' debate.

ESML0417: British politics
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Politics
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide a grounding in the study of the British political system, including wider aspects of Britain's relations with the EU.
Content:
The lectures will focus on a wide range of specific topics central to beginning to study politics (parties, institutions, etc.). Lectures will include: conservatism; social democracy; voting behaviour; the media; electoral systems; parliament; executive; pressure groups; Britain and the European Union.

HASS0006: Core skills for social scientists: information technology methods
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Contact:
Topic: Research Methods
Level: Level 1
Assessment: PR50 CW50
Requisites: Co SOCP0059, Co SOCP0060
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce students to basic computing skills needed to support methods modules in Years 1 and 2.
Content:
Through practical experience students will acquire basic skills in word-processing, spreadsheets, simple databases, file management, use of networked PCs and accessing remote sources (WWWeb); competence will be assessed through pra cticals and through successful use of skills in later methods modules.

PSYC0001: Psychology 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 1
Assessment: ES100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The aim of this course is to introduce students to basic concepts and current themes and debates within psychology.
Content:
Lectures will be broadly based on the question - 'WHO AM I'? In order to answer this question, we will consider: drives; hormones and the mind/body question; our animal history and the influence of genetics; learning and socialisa tion; personality; society and the individual; intelligence and creativity; family relationships; social groups and social interaction attitudes; values, cultural beliefs, gender and social identity; normality and deviance; language and communication. Th ese lectures will provide the student with a grounding in the major domains within psychology, thereby preparing them for a critical understanding of the discipline as a whole.

PSYC0002: Psychology 2
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre PSYC0001
Aims & learning objectives:
Psychology II builds upon psychology I both conceptually and in terms of course content. This course will focus more heavily, however, on issues in biological psychology, although prior conta ct with the biological sciences will not be required. The purpose of this course is to provide the student with a more critical understanding of the nature of psychology as a discipline and its relation to neighbouring sciences (i.e., biology & psychiatr y).
Content:
Lecture topics in this course will include; aggression and violence; altruism and helping; social skills; stress and emotions; fear, anxiety, depression, guilt and happiness; thinking and reasoning; social perceptions; prejudice an d attribution; competition and co-operation; the autonomic nervous system; brain specialisation; the eye and brain.

PSYC0003: Psychology laboratory 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 1
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The laboratory practical classes provide part of the training the student requires to develop skills in the methods of scientific enquiry.
Content:
The class will examine basic concepts used in experimental psychology. We will then work through the design of 4 experiments which students will carry out on their own. These experiments will address a range of issues such as soc ial psychology, learning, eyewitness testimony, cognition, gender stereotyping and personality.

PSYC0004: Psychology laboratory 2
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 1
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
This course continues the development of skills the methods of scientific enquiry.
Content:
As well as gathering data for three taught experiments, students will be required to design and carry out an experiment of their own, employing many of the scientific research techniques examined on the course. This independent re search project provides experience of work in teams.

PSYC0005: Psychology research project 1
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co PSYC0006
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide the opportunity for students to develop their understanding of research methods and the analysis of data through participation in a project.
Content:
Students will design and carry out a research project over two semesters. At the end of semester 1, they will be assessed on the research proposal. During the second semester they will conduct and analyse the project, present the ir findings to the class, and write up the project for assessment.

PSYC0006: Psychology research project 2
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Co PSYC0005
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide the opportunity for students to develop their understanding of research methods and the analysis of data through participation in a project.
Content:
Students will design and carry out a research project over two semesters. At the end of semester 1, they will be assessed on the research proposal. During the second semester they will conduct and analyse the project, present the ir findings to the class, and write up the project for assessment.

PSYC0007: Developmental psychology
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0001, Pre PSYC0002
Aims & learning objectives:
To equip the student with the basic principles of Developmental Psychology, including theory, methodology and critiques. The student will have the groundwork for being able to apply an unders tanding of human development to other fields such as social work, educational psychology or sociology of the family.
Content:
This course concentrates on the progression from infancy to adulthood, but also includes a life-span perspective. How does the 'well-equipped stranger' infant become a competent adult ? The course takes account of major theoretic al perspectives in human development, while paying particular attention to cognitive and cultural approaches that reflect recent theoretical developments. Cognitive, moral, social, linguistic and emotional development are addressed. The concepts of 'sta ge', 'normal life crisis' and life transitions are highlighted.

PSYC0008: Cognitive psychology
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0001, Pre PSYC0002
Aims & learning objectives:
To equip the student with the basic principles of Cognitive Psychology, including theory, methodology and critiques. The student will be able to undertake more advanced courses relating to Co gnitive Psychology, for example on Artificial Intelligence. The student will also be able to appreciate the relationship of Cognitive Psychology to other fields of social and cognitive science.
*
Content:
How do we process information
* How do we organise information
* How do we store, and retrieve, information
* How do we solve problems We will consider three main approaches to research in this field; experimental methods: model-building based on case studies, and learning from brain damage.

PSYC0009: Social psychology
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0001, Pre PSYC0002
Aims & learning objectives:
To equip students with an understanding of social interaction and social processes in dyads, group and communities.
Content:
This course focuses on the individual in interaction with others, in dyads, small groups and large groups. It examines the reciprocal relationship between the individual and their community, the röle of the individual as a gr oup member, decision-making processes in small and large groups, inter-group relations and crowd behaviour. We will also examine how our impressions of others are formed and what it is that distinguishes human sciences from all others.

PSYC0010: Clinical psychology
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0001, Pre PSYC0002
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce the work of clinical psychologists in the main areas of Adult Mental Health, Learning Disabilities and work with older adults. At the end of the course students should be able to set this work within the context of organisational change within the NHS and to contrast a psychological approach with other approaches, such as those of psychiatry. Students will also have more extensive knowledge of a specific psychotherapeutic techni que.
Content:
The basis of psychiatric diagnosis; introduction to counselling and psychotherapy; depression; loss and bereavement; anxiety; schizophrenia; learning disabilities; older adults; eating disorders; the context of work and evaluating interventions.

PSYC0011: Psychology dissertation 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: OR100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To plan, execute and report a piece of original empirical research in psychology.
Content:


PSYC0012: Psychology dissertation 2
Semester 2
Credits: 12
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: DS100
Requisites: Co PSYC0011
Aims & learning objectives:
To plan, execute and report a piece of original empirical research in psychology.
Content:


PSYC0013: Models of counselling & psychotherapy
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce the main models of counselling and psychotherapy used in clinical practice. At the end of the course students should be able to set this work within the context of the main issue s and dilemmas involved in working psychotherapeutically and to be familiar with some of the clinical problems that people present to a therapist. Students will also be able to formulate a clinical case.
Content:
The context within which psychotherapists and counsellors work; the main models of psychotherapy (i.e., psychodynamic, behavioural, cognitive, systemic, humanistic and group); evaluating interventions (outcome and process research) ; a postmodernist approach to counselling and psychotherapy.

PSYC0014: History of psychology
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0001, Pre PSYC0002
Aims & learning objectives:
To equip the student with an understanding of the History of Psychology, including the development of theory and methodology and critiques. The student will also be able to appreciate the rel ationship of Psychology to the development of other fields of social and cognitive science, and to the social and historical context.
Content:
This course considers the development of ideas over time, and what function a historical perspective plays in how we think about a field. It contextualises some key ideas in psychology, showing what their roots were, and how they waxed and waned, and why. By paying attention to specific people's intellectual lives, we see how the development of ideas is embedded in context and culture. Students must have undertaken 2 units from Cognitive (SOCS0089), Clinical (SOCS0091), Developmental (SOCS0088) and Social Psychology (SOCS0090) as well as the other necessary pre-requisites (SOCS0082 & SOCS0083).

PSYC0015: Economic & political psychology
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0009
Aims & learning objectives:
The theoretical basis of this course will be on the psychological organisation of social, political, economic and ethical beliefs, and their development and aetiology. The implicit models of psychological processes that underpin expert and common-sense conceptions of rationality and ethics. The problematic nature of links between beliefs and action. The tensions between 'discourse' and 'ideology' models of explanation.
Content:
Topics include: psychological models of ideology in the organisation of beliefs; mainstream and emergent political-social beliefs (feminism, Green politics); lay beliefs, e.g., about unemployment, poverty, ethics; concepts of fair ness and equity; moral development; elite beliefs - what constitutes 'legitimation'? Political propaganda and rhetoric. Social movements, social change and intergroup relations. Students must have undertaken one other unit from Cognitive (SOCS0089), Developmental (SOCS0088) and Clinical Psychology (SOCS0091), as well as the necessary pre-requisite (SOCS0090).

PSYC0016: Health psychology
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0008, Pre PSYC0009
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce students to concepts, theory, methods and applications of health psychology. Students will be introduced to health psychology theory and methods using the concepts of social psyc hology and psychobiology. They will be expected to know about the range of methods appropriate to the measuring process and evaluating outcomes in health psychology. A major theme in the course questions what it means to be healthy or well and to have a good quality of life in relation to health care and investigates how this can be assessed. They will be in a position to appreciate some of the key interventions designed by health psychologists for use in clinical and non-clinical settings with patient s suffering from the major chronic disease groups, e.g., cardiovascular, cancer and chronic pain conditions. The reporting of symptoms and the management of acute illness in GP consultations forms a central part of the course. Attention will be paid to the range of settings in which health care is delivered and the impact of hospitalisation and institutionalisation. The seminars provide a range of topics connected with preventing disease e.g., AIDS and on health promotion and education. Students will be expected to be able to set the psychology of health within a broad multidisciplinary context in the health and social sciences. They will be encouraged to understand not only how health care is appraised by patients/clients, but also the reciprocal ro le of giving care on the part of health care workers. They should be able to appraise the dynamics of organising psychological care within the health care system.

PSYC0017: Controversies in cognition
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0007, Pre PSYC0008
Aims & learning objectives:
To equip the student with an understanding of current issues and controversies in psychology
Content:
The course will address key issues in contemporary psychology relating to cognition, language and models of mind. These will include: problems of consciousness and the interface of neuroscience, cognitive science and philosophy; c onnectionist theory and its implications; the rise of evolutionary psychology; debates about culture and human development.

PSYC0018: Mind & social being
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 CW50
Requisites: Pre PSYC0008, Pre PSYC0009, Pre PSYC0014
Aims & learning objectives:
Students should have a conceptual understanding of the social construction of knowledge. They should be able to analytically apply this understanding to the central issues of psychological re search: consciousness, identity, physical and emotional being.

PSYC0019: Artificial intelligence 1: Minds, machines & persons
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: ES80 OT20
Requisites: Pre PSYC0025, Pre PSYC0008
Students must have taken one of the above pre-requisites in order to take this unit. Aims & learning objectives:
This course introduces some recent research in the field of computer-based modelling and simulation of human activities which require the intelligent use of knowledge, otherwise known as Artificial Intelligence. We will approach machine intelligence through two complementary questions: could human intelligence be simulated, equalled or even exceeded by machines? Can the machine-metaphor still help us understand human cognitive and social processes?
Content:
Machine-metaphors for human thinking and reasoning now compete with evolutionary biology and neurology for influence in both psychological and sociological approaches to human behaviour. The course will provide historical backgrou nd, will introduce some of the main approaches and research projects in the field, and will set out two main areas of debate: criticisms made by AI researchers about rival approaches, and arguments of philosophers, sociologists and psychologists about th e attempt to simulate intelligence. Students will become familiar with key authors and texts, and will learn to evaluate claims about computer programs relating to:
* their power, intelligence or other capabilities
* their influence upon psychological and social theory
* their continuing role in psychological and social research
* their influence on our notions of expertise, intelligence, creativity and humanity.

PSYC0020: Artificial intelligence 2: Microsimulation
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: ES80 CW20
Requisites: Pre PSYC0019
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit allows students to develop their understanding of issues introduced in Artificial Intelligence 1 [PSYC0019] through a more detailed study of recent theoretical developments and of th e development and applications of some AI programs. Students will be required to examine the literature relating to two influential developments in AI. No programming or modeling experience is required for this course
Content:
This course explores the application of biological models in AI as well as the more traditional approaches. Students will be expected to understand the applications of computer simulation in the social sciences (especially cognitiv e psychology), the methods of two major research projects, and the implications of computer simulation for social and psychological theory. Students may also undertake practical projects in the form of experiments with computer models and simulation pro grams, which can be written up as a project report.

PSYC0021: Research design & measurement
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Contact:
Topic: Research Methods
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Co SOCP0061
Aims & learning objectives:
To equip the student with an appreciation of measurement and quantitative research methods.
Content:
The course will introduce the student to a range of measurement methods used within psychological research, for example questionnaires and surveys. Students will develop their own competencies as well as the ability to evaluate th e relative merits and applicability of different approaches.

PSYC0022: Quantitative methods 3
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Contact:
Topic: Research Methods
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Pre PSYC0021, Pre SOCP0061
Aims & learning objectives:
To equip the student with skills and an appreciation of more advanced quantitative research methods and their applications.
Content:
The course will build on the statistical methods introduced in Quantitative Methods 2 and extend their application. More advanced methods will be introduced and applied to existing datasets.

PSYC0023: Qualitative research methods in psychology
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Contact:
Topic: Research Methods
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To equip the student with an appreciation of qualitative research methods and their applications
Content:
The course will introduce the student to a range of qualitative methods used within psychological research, including interviewing, observation, analysis of discourse and text. Students will develop competence through practical ex ercises.

PSYC0025: About science 2: discovery, dissemination & status of scientific knowledge
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 CW50
Requisites: Co PSYC0024
Aims & learning objectives:
Continues to develop and evaluate several main views of the nature of scientific method introduced in the precursor unit (PSYC0024), using historical case studies of scientific discoveries an d controversies. This unit goes on to deal with the research process, the application of science in technology and medicine, and the problematic status of science in relation to its cultural context.
Content:
Students are expected to develop an analytical and critical approach to ideas and opinions about science, and to master the use of documentary sources. All students prepare an essay and also present and defend their own views on i n an assessed seminar presentation.

PSYC0026: Public knowledge 3a: history, philosophy & sociology of science
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: ES75 CW25
Requisites: Pre PSYC0008, Pre PSYC0025, Co PSYC0027
Students must have taken one of the above pre-requisites in order to take this unit. Aims & learning objectives:
The course aims to enable students to develop an informed and critical view of the nature of all aspects of scientific activity and the problems arising from the differences between scientific and other approaches to problems.
Content:
Scientific, Expert and Lay Knowledge; Science and Public Understanding; Public Acceptance of Science and Technology; Science and Public Policy; Science and other Modes of Knowledge. The course is seminar based with considerable di rected reading. All students will read and discuss a number of key authors in the seminars, will be expected to evaluate a number of television programs about science, and will undertake a research project.

PSYC0027: Public knowledge 3b: history, philosophy & sociology of science
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX25 ES50 CW25
Requisites: Co PSYC0026
Aims & learning objectives:
The course aims to enable students to develop an informed and critical view of the nature of all aspects of scientific activity and the problems arising from the differences between scientific and other approaches to problems.
Content:
Scientific, Expert and Lay Knowledge; Science and Public Understanding; Public Acceptance of Science and Technology; Science and Public Policy; Science and other Modes of Knowledge. The course is seminar based with considerable di rected reading. All students will read and discuss a number of key authors in the seminars, will be expected to evaluate a number of television programs about science, and will undertake a research project.

PSYC0028: Placement
Academic Year
Credits: 60
Contact:
Topic: Psychology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: RT80 (Report 20, Final Report 60) OT20 (Placement Desc.)
Requisites:


SOCP0001: Introduction to social policy & the welfare state 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Social Policy
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce basic concepts of social policy; to examine the historical evolution of social policy and the welfare state in Britain; to review and analyse recent developments in major social s ervice areas; to introduce the work of 'classic' writers in social policy.
Content:
Services and sectors in Social Policy; 1834 Poor Law; the 1842 'Sanitary Report'; The Liberal Reforms and the Introduction of Pensions; Beveridge and the impact of the 2nd World war; the Post-War Welfare State; Thatcherism and Soci al Policy; Educational Reform; Housing; Community Care

SOCP0002: Introduction to social policy & the welfare state 2
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Social Policy
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre SOCP0001
Aims & learning objectives:
To provide an introduction to social policy as a field of study. To examine the nature and extent of poverty and inequality in Britain today, as a means of developing an understanding of soci al policies as a field of study.
Content:
Introduction to Social Policy; Concepts and Definitions of Poverty; Social Exclusion; Evidence on the Incidence of Poverty and Inequality; Demographic Factors and their relationship to Poverty; Poverty, Gender and 'Race'; Poverty a nd Policy.

SOCP0003: 'Race' & racism
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Social Policy
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To develop an understanding of issues of 'race' and ethnicity. To examine the dimensions of discrimination and disadvantage in Britain. To analyse key policy areas to highlight the prevalenc e and effects of racism. To evaluate attempts to eradicate racism, discrimination and disadvantage.
Content:
Concepts of 'Race' and Ethnicity; Racial Inequality in Britain; Racism; Colonialism; Racial Harassment; Immigration; Race Relations Law; Multi-Culturalism, Anti-Racism and Education; Urban Unrest; 'Race', Racism and Policing; 'Race ' and Citizenship.

SOCP0004: Family and gender
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Social Policy
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To examine changing patterns of family and working life, the causes of these, and their implications for gender roles and for social policy, in the UK and elsewhere.
Content:
Definitions of the family; The politics of the family; The regulation of sexual behaviour, marriage & divorce; Lone parenthood; Feminist theory and the family; Childhood and children's rights; Support for families; Concepts of Fam ily policy; The relationship between family policy and other areas of policy.

SOCP0005: Politics and the policy process
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Social Policy
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Ex ECOI0080
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit introduces students to key concepts for analysing the policy-making process. By the end of the unit students should have a basic understanding of problems and issues in the making an d implementation of social policy in Britain. This course has a common lecture programme with the Politics and Policy course, however each course has a separate seminar programme.
Content:
Each lecture covers one conceptual topic, including: Introduction to Policy Analysis; Theories of the State; Power; Models of Decision-making and Policy Formulation; Implementation; Street-Level Decision-Making; Organisational Cons traints; Interest Groups and Policy Communities. The seminars apply these to topical issues in social policy.

SOCP0006: Political values & social policy
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Social Policy
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
This unit introduces students to a range of values and principles used to justify the role of the state in social policy. By the end of the module students should be familiar with the broad ra nge of principles and should be able to apply some of them to current debates.
Content:
Each lecture will cover one core principle, including: Need, Freedom, Equality, Justice, Citizenship, Community. The seminars will apply each to one issue or problem in contemporary social policy; for example, training schemes and equality of opportunity; citizenship and rights to a basic income.

SOCP0011: Health policies & politics
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Social Policy
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre SOCP0005, Pre SOCP0006
Aims & learning objectives:
This course aims to develop an understanding of how health policy integrates with wider social policy issues, as well as a detailed understanding of the content and dynamism of health policy p rocesses. As a result , students should
* understand the impact of different welfare models on health care systems in Europe and America
* understand the political forces behind health care reform in the British NHS
* understand the pressures exerted on health care systems and the range of responses that have arisen
* be able to compare and contrast the strengths of the different approaches and their uses in different settings
Content:
1. Health, health care and health policy 2. Comparing health systems: the UK 3. Comparing health systems: the USA and Europe 4. Pressures on health care systems (1) Demographic and economic changes 5. Pressures on health care systems (2) Science and technology 6. Politics of reform: 50 years of the NHS 7. Rationing and priority setting 8. Medicine and the media: the effect on policy 9. Paying for care and the mixed economy 10. Evaluating health care and health policy 11. Informing health policy: the politics of data gathering 12. The New Public Health

SOCP0034: Working with offenders
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Social Work
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Requisites: pre SOCP0001, SOCP0002 for non-SWASS students Aims & learning objectives:
The aim is to examine and evaluate methods of working with convicted offenders within the criminal justice system. The context is practice and legislation. The unit is preparation for those who are considering workin g with offenders in a wide range of agancies and organisations, not just probation and social work. As well as having vocational relevance, this unit is suitable for those with academic and research interests. For non social work students the unit builds upon earlier learning, either from the Sociology of Crime and Deviance unit and the Sociology of Criminal Justice Policy unit, by adding perspectives from practice and the detail of legislation.
Content:
The core knowledge base comprises: community sentences;prison work; post-release supervision; National Standards for the supervision of offenders; PSRs; the value base of work with offenders; methods - theory and practice [with emphasis upon cognitive-beh avioural programmes]; effectiveness and the "What works?" debate; risk assessment; working with addictions, homelessness and educational needs. Categories of offenders include: children and young offenders; women; mentally disordered offenders; sex offend ers; lifers and other serious offenders.

SOCP0043: Sociology of industrial societies 1: classical theories
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 1
Assessment: ES100
Requisites: Co SOCP0044
Aims & learning objectives:
To understand the basic sociological questions, theories and evidence of industrial society
Content:
To answer the following questions: 1) How and why is industrial society distinctive? 2) Does industrial society have a logic of social differentiation, based on conflict , control, or social order? Differences in work, authority and decision making, kinship and gender, culture and community. The theories of Marx, Durkheim and Weber.

SOCP0044: Sociology of industrial societies 2: social change & social control
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To understand the changing nature of industrial societies, modern and post-modern theories and evidence of social stratification, organisation and control
Content:
To answer the following questions: 1) Do industrial societies display common trends, even superseding industrialism? 2) What are the main modes of social regulation and social control in changing societies? Theories and evidence of post-industrialism, convergence, managerialism, ethnic and gender forms of social stratification in relation to social control and citizenship.

SOCP0047: Sociology of work & industry
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre SOCP0044
Aims & learning objectives:
This course examines sociological approaches to the changing forms of work and work organisations. Key issues include rationalisation and bureaucratisation; the introduction and impact of new technologies; managerial and worker strategies in the control of work; conflict and accommodation at the workplace; corporate structure - ownership, control and managerialism, implications for theories of class and gender relationships. The course inves tigates these issues in three broad contexts: the period of early industrialisation, the development of mass production and 'Fordism' and the growth and consolidation of modern industrial structures.

SOCP0048: Understanding industrial behaviour
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre SOCP0044
Aims & learning objectives:
The aim of the course is to give students a Sociological understanding of industrial behaviour, showing the competing paradigms and theories that describe industrial relationships, institutions and social structures.
Content:
The course takes students through the main debates in management and work organisation theory, looking at Taylorism and Fordism. The Hawthorne Studies and the early Human Relations School. This is followed by an analysis of the Soc io-Technical School and its prescriptions. Contingency Theory and Labour Process Theory bring the debates up to the 1990s. During the course a number of case study examples are used to illustrate the key points of the differing schools.

SOCP0049: The sociology of crime & deviance
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 CW50
Requisites: Pre SOCP0044
Aims & learning objectives:
Introduction to the main sociological theories of crime and deviance. The course also provides invaluable preparation for the Sociology of Criminal Justice Policy and the necessary undergradu ate training for all those who intend to do postgraduate work in the areas of crime and/or social control.
Content:
Divided into two parts the lectures and seminars cover, in the first part, the history of the sociology of crime from the late 19th century to the present day; in the second, they deal with THREE major crime-related sociological is sues: class and crime, racism and crime; and gender and crime.

SOCP0050: Sociology of criminal justice policy
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre SOCP0049
Aims & learning objectives:
Current research and policy issues in the criminal justice and penal systems. It will examine trends in criminal policy; the politics of policing and police accountability; the development of penal sanctions and the related issues of alternatives to custodial measures; the efficacy and equity, or lack of them, of the legal processes of the criminal courts; the role of new technologies; the management of prisons including the issues of privat isation and other issues concerning the social context of penal policy.

SOCP0051: Social structure & languages of class
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to demonstrate differences in structural theories of industrial and capitalist societies, and to develop an understanding of the ways in which classical sociological theory has been developed and changed to explain social stratification and inequality.
Content:
Parsons' AGIL framework, and the Functionalist Theory of Stratification. Althusser and 'structuralist' Marxism, contributions from the Frankfurt School. Empirical issues and evidence from the sociology of class and stratification .

SOCP0052: Theoretical issues in sociology
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre SOCP0062
Aims & learning objectives:
This module examines key debates in contemporary social theory and their relationship to classical sociology. These will include such issues as: the debate over human agency versus social str ucture; power and knowledge; language and social interaction; modernity and postmodernity; industrialism and postindustrialism and globalisation.

SOCP0054: Power & commitment in organisations
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites: Pre SOCP0044, Pre SOCP0048
Aims & learning objectives:
The aim of the course is to explore the themes of ideology, power and legitimacy in the context of organisations. To look at different methodological and empirical attempts to study these issu es in enterprise and organisational contexts. By the end of the course the student will have familiarity with a number of ways of qualitatively apprehending the operation and construction of legitimate forms of management.
Content:
The course begins with the theoretical problem of conceptualising power. Students are introduced to the Marxist and Weberian approaches and to Lukes' philosophical attempt to distinguish three different dimensions. The course then looks at specific themes starting with Decision-making in enterprises and boardroom activity. Other themes are Collective bargaining, the creation of rules and industrial legality. Worker participation and consultation. Managerial strategies to gain comm itment, the growth of corporate cultures, Japanisation and Human Resource Management practices.

SOCP0055: Comparative industrial relations
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES40 CW10
Requisites: Pre SOCP0043, Pre SOCP0044
Aims & learning objectives:
This course examines the changing role of trade unions in industrial societies - their relationship to the state and political parties, the significance of ideology and different national trad itions; the economic and social causes and consequences of industrial conflict. Comparative cross-national studies will focus on the post-war period, conflict and maturation approaches and union responses to economic, social and political adversity.

SOCP0056: Environmental policy & the countryside
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To develop a clear understanding of the politics of the policy process as it applies to the countryside and the environment
Content:
Concern for the environment has become a radical and innovative element in European politics. By focusing on developments between the passage of the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act and the publication of the 1995 Rural White Pap er the Unit explains the factors which have transformed the agenda of rural policy making. Corporatist politics and competitive pluralist politics are contrasted and special attention is given to the changing balance of private and public rights and resp onsibilities in the countryside.

SOCP0059: Core skills for social scientists: social research methods
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Contact:
Topic: Research Methods
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce students to classical, influential examples of investigations and research in various social sciences, and to introduce the main methods as well as philosophical and methodologica l issues raised by each.
Content:
Classical and influential case studies in political, sociological and psychological research; different types of methods; classification, quantification and meaning; controversial studies and their implications.

SOCP0060: Introduction to data analysis
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Research Methods
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
To introduce students to the main assumptions, concepts and methods of descriptive and inferential statistics, and to establish basic competence sufficient for investigative, exploratory data analysis using a spreadsheet and/or dedicated statistical software.
Content:
Description, Classification, Quantification; Descriptive Statistics; accessing and exploring a data set; Inferential Statistics; Causation and Correlation; types of statistical test; learning to select appropriate tests; designing an investigative project. The emphasis is on practical competence.

SOCP0061: Quantitative social research methods
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Contact:
Topic: Research Methods
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites: Pre SOCP0060
Aims & learning objectives:
To develop an understanding of the application and use of a range of quantitative techniques together with complementary/supporting research methods, and to establish competence in conducting specialised tests, sufficient data analysis using dedicated statistical software. Specific methods and tests will vary according to the degree specialism being followed.
Content:
Specific research methods and quantitative techniques, specified according the degree specialism being followed.

SOCP0069: Social theory & social philosophy
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic: Sociology
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites:
Aims & learning objectives:
The aims of this unit are to demonstrate the significance of different theories of scientific methodology for the social sciences and the distinctive contribution of the interpretivist perspec tive to sociological and related social sciences. Students should learn the problematic relevance of natural science models for social science and the substantive and methodological claims and value of interpretivist social theory.
Content:
Positivist models of scientific method and the interpretivist tradition in sociology: Popper, Kuhn, Winch and Weber. 'Actor-based' approaches: Goffman and ethnomethodology.

SOCP0070: Social issues in contemporary Europe
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
Aims and Learning Objectives: To develop student understanding of the major social themes affecting Europe today. This unit will adopt a comparative perspective that looks at the changing boundaries social agendas in place in major European countries. The course will attempt to display elements of convergence and divergence within those different and developing social agendas.
Content:
The idea of Europe as a social entity; EU developments promoting common social policies; comparative demographics regarding family, gender, employment, labour market, education, welfare and social policies. Comparative analysis of social institutions and modes of approach to common problems.

SOCP0071: Sociology of punishment
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites:
Aims and Learning Objectives: Sociological analysis of the changing social, cultural and political meanings of formal and informal modes of penality and custodial social regulation.
Content:
Justifications for punishment, history of imprisonment, theories of imprisonment, prison populations, current issues in imprisonment, non-custodial sentences, capital punishment, studying prisons.

SOCP0084: The politics of the welfare state
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Contact:
Topic:
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX50 ES50
Requisites:
Aims and Learning Objectives: To discuss and assess different theories of policy-making in the area of social policy. To apply them to selected current social policy issues.
Content:
Socio-economic explanations; political explanations; institutional explanations; theory of welfare retrenchment; public opinion and the welfare state; the middle classes and the welfare state; the think tanks and the welfare state; globalization and the welfare state; population ageing and pension reform; the development of active labour market policies.