SOC-20060 - Module Specification
School of Social Sciences
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None.

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

This module challenges you to engage with the process of becoming a sociological knowledge producer, showing that the way we approach a sociological problem impacts upon the kinds of insights we produce. We look at a variety of methodological approaches and consider the challenges researchers face, such as navigating the complexities of objectivity and subjectivity, understanding positionality in research design, and upholding ethical standards. We will use real-world sociological case studies, like studying hard-to-reach populations or investigating sensitive topics, to bring these concepts to life. Throughout the module you are encouraged to identify your existing skills, allowing you to build on your strengths and address any areas for development. This module will enhance your appreciation of your role as a researcher and equip you with the tools needed to conduct meaningful and ethical social research.

This module aims to:
Teach students about the nature of sociological knowledge and how it is distinctive from knowledge produced by the natural sciences.
Teach students that knowledge is produced on the basis of particular ontological assumptions.
Teach students the range of approaches to the production of sociological knowledge and different ways to design social research projects.
Teach students that approaches to sociological method are underpinned by methodological assumptions concerned with the nature of reality and the best way to access truth.
Provide the tools for students to reflect on their own personal and professional attributes and identify where these might be mobilised to complete social research.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Identify and explain the distinctiveness of sociological knowledge in relation to (1) the natural sciences and (2) other social sciences, humanities and other forms of knowledge through reference to key sources: 1,2
Compare and contrast different approaches to the production of sociological knowledge in designing social research and debate their relative merits: 2
Demonstrate knowledge that truth claims made by sociologists are based upon theoretical assumptions made in the process of producing their knowledge: 2
Identify different theoretical approaches for the production of sociological knowledge and where they may be applied in appropriate research design: 1,2
Explain the meaning of key terms relating to debates around the production of sociological knowledge and demonstrate the developing potential to use these appropriately in their own projects: 1,2
Reflect critically on their existing personal and professional attributes and identify where they may need to upskill to successfully complete a social research project: 1

Study hours

20 contact hours - 10 lectures, 10 seminars
44 hours of set guided asynchronous online activity to include engagement with key readings, audio and video content, quizzes and note-taking in preparation for seminars.
38 hours preparation and completion of skills mapping exercise
48 hours preparation and completion of reflective diary

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment