Module: SOC6100-20 Gender in Society Critical Perspectives

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Helen Moore

Module Tutor Contact Details: h.moore@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module introduces students to a range of sociological and feminist theoretical perspectives on gender alongside contemporary debates about gender in society. The module aims to develop an in-depth and critical approach to the study of gender in global context through an exploration of the social construction of femininities and masculinities and their historical, cultural, and political dimensions. The module invites students to consider the social and cultural pressures and processes that shape gender identities in contemporary society, as well as the subversion and transgression of gender norms. Students will consider question such as: What is gender? What roles do biology; society and culture play in the construction of gendered identities? What are the social costs of deviating from gender norms? What is the relationship between gender and crime?

2. Outline syllabus: 

The curriculum will be drawn from topics which may include:

• Feminist theoretical approaches to gender

• Gender socialisation: learning and ‘doing’ gender

• The intersection of gender with ‘race’, ethnicity and social class

• The relationship between gender, crime and violence

• Gender, parenting and domesticity

• Gender inequalities in education and work

• Masculinities and the ‘men’s movement’

3. Teaching and learning activities: 

This module will be taught through workshops which include a variety of teaching and learning activities. Material delivered in lecture format will provide an introduction to each topic and students will explore issues in greater depth through group discussions, debates, informal presentations and other interactive, student-led activities. Students will be expected to conduct guided preparatory activities ahead of seminars, which may include reading and evaluating academic literature, policy documents, online materials or popular culture texts. Additional literature will be recommended for assessment-related study.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Essay (2000 words)

• % Weighting: 40

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Group poster presentation + individual research diary (3000 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 60