Department of Social & Policy Sciences, Unit Catalogue 2007/08 |
SP10002 Social problems & social policy |
| Credits: 6 |
| Level: Certificate |
| Semester: 1 |
| Assessment: CW 100% |
| Requisites: |
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Aims:
i. to introduce students to theoretical and empirical resources used in the analysis of social problems; ii. to introduce students to an understanding of the framework, operation and financing of social policy; iii. to apply these resources and this understanding to an analysis of the connections between social problems and social policies. Learning Outcomes: By the end of this unit students should be able to: * seek out and use empirical evidence for analysing social problems and social policies; * understand a range of theories and concepts used to analyse social problems and social policies; * understand the distinction between normative and empirical questions; * communicate and discuss ideas in writing and in discussion, including giving a brief presentation. Skills: * To think creatively and analytically. * To communicate an argument. * To evaluate others' arguments and research. * To learn independently and be able to assess own learning needs (i.e. identify strengths and improve weaknesses in methods of learning and studying). * To critically evaluate and assess research and evidence as well as a variety of other information. * To synthesise information from a number of sources in order to gain a coherent understanding. * Study & learning skills (note taking, avoiding plagarism, using the library, gathering and using information, constructing a bibliography, referencing). * Basic ICT skills (word processing, email, using the web, use of VLEs). * Interpersonal and communication skills. * Essay research, preparation and writing skills. * To construct a bibliography of varying complexity. * Essay writing skills. * Presentation skills. * Team and group working skills. * To manage time effectively and respond to changing demands. Content: Lectures * the social construction of social problems (examples used may change, but could include poverty, social exclusion, disability, crime and anti-social behaviour, health inequalities, teenage pregnancy, unemployment, homelessness). * social differences and social problems. * theories of human need and wellbeing. * social problems, power and the policy process (to include questions of funding, government, management, profession and administration). Seminars * Key themes of power, need and the role of the state. |