SO4003 - Thinking Sociologically 1

What will I learn on this module?

This module introduces some of the key figures in nineteenth century social theory and the founding figures in sociological theory. On this module, you will explore the meaning and application of a range of social theory, and the distinctiveness of thinking sociologically. You will examine key thinkers from sociology, and identify their contribution to understanding, and being able to address, some of the main problems and issues that frame sociology, such as those around social change, social identities, social divisions and power relationships.

Our aim is to have a practical approach to theory exploring how we can best use some of the ideas developed by early theorists to understand our own lives and the world in which we live. By the end of the module, you will be able to demonstrate the importance of theory in the understanding and explanation of the nature of the social world, understand the origins and development of key sociological theory, and introduce some of the main classical perspectives.

How will I learn on this module?

The module will be taught through a combination of lectures and seminars. Lectures will generally outline key concepts and theories which, along with the Module Guide and e-learning portal, will provide a framework for seminar discussions and student self-directed study. Seminars will focus upon key discussion questions and key readings, which will directly relate to assessment tasks. Key readings are available electronically via the library or via the Blackboard site for the module.

You will be expected to engage in private and self-directed study. The lecture programme, module guide, internet site and tutor prescription will provide a clear framework for this study.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

Tutorial time will be available to all students (on a group or individual basis) during staff ‘office hours’ or upon appointment with a module tutor. Sign up on the office door of staff or email members of staff to request a tutorial time.

You will also have access to the e-learning portal with a dedicated internet site to support this module (currently via 'Blackboard'). The site will include electronic copies of module and lecture materials, further reading materials, important module announcements, tutor advice/guidance and further internet links.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:

1. To demonstrate an understanding of the importance of social theory in the understanding and explanation of the nature of the social world

2. To demonstrate an understanding, at an introductory level, of the main classical perspectives in sociological theory, including the theoretical perspectives of Durkheim, Marx and Weber.

3. To demonstrate an understanding of the origins and development of key sociological theory and theorists and how they relate to each other


Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
1. To start to apply, and be able to discuss, a range of social theory to contemporary debates and current affairs

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

1. To recognise the role played by theoretical models in studying society and appreciate the contribution sociological theory makes to the understanding and explanation of aspects of the social world, and how this interacts with your own perspectives and world view.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed in Semester 1 through a short essay take home exam (2,000 words) in week 8 (semester 1), based on the module content up to week 8. You will also be assessed on your seminar reflective diary, to be handed in during week 12.


You will receive written feedback on your assessments within 20 working days (4 weeks) of their submissions dates in semester one and semester two.

Students are encouraged to see their tutors for additional feedback on their assessments during the year. Students are also encouraged, where relevant, to use essay plans as part of their assessment preparation and tutors can offer formative feedback on these plans to help students with their writing.

Pre-requisite(s)

none

Co-requisite(s)

none

Module abstract

Please find details of this module in the other sections provided.

Course info

UCAS Code Z006

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

School Humanities and Social Sciences

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2027

Fee Information

Module Information

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

 

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

 

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

 

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies. 

 

Useful Links

Find out about our distinctive approach at 
www.northumbria.ac.uk/exp

Admissions Terms and Conditions
northumbria.ac.uk/terms
Fees and Funding
northumbria.ac.uk/fees
Admissions Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/adpolicy

Admissions Complaints Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/complaints