Modules and areas of study in Sociology
Sociology is a very broad and wide-ranging subject. It investigates virtually every aspect of human society and explores the values, ideas and beliefs that shape our lives.
In Year 1 of this degree we learn the foundations of sociology through six core modules split up into two different semesters. My Year 1 modules consisted of a range of topics, a few of my favourites being: Cultivating a Sociological Imagination, Explaining Crime and Deviance, and Theorising the Social World. When moving into second year, however, you get the choice of optional modules in addition to core modules. I have just recently chosen my options, some of which being: Gender, Sexuality and Inequalities & Conversation Analysis.
Independent work, seminars and lectures
In each of the modules in Sociology, we have lectures, seminars and independent work to be completed. For certain modules we are also required to take part in problem-based learning which I always thoroughly enjoy. In this you work together with other students to investigate different social problems – problems such as: climate change, domestic abuse, and immigration. They differ from seminars in the way they are student-led and more participant friendly. The structure of lectures differ once again with there being low student participation, mostly note taking and lecturer-led work. In first year you can expect 8 hours of lectures per week and 4 hours of seminars. There is also much reading to be completed which is often discussed in depth in seminars. Each week you can access essential or recommended information which is beneficial to the understanding of topics studied in Sociology.
All learning will take place on Campus East, in buildings such as the Piazza, Ron Cooke and Law & Sociology.
Assessments in Sociology
Sociology is an essay-based subject so there are no exams per say, however assessments take many different forms: essays, posters, seminar reflections, group work etc. Whilst studying Sociology at York there are two types of assessments, one optional called a formative assessment and the other compulsory called a summative assessment. Formative assessments were introduced as a perfect opportunity to receive and address feedback prior to the summative assessment. They provide a chance to practice in technique and expectations. Summative assessments, however, are not optional; they are marked and go towards your end of year grade.
Support available in the department
I would personally deem the Department of Sociology as one of the most friendly, supportive and approachable departments at York. It’s easy to book one-on-one time with staff, meet with your academic supervisor, or shoot your lecturer or seminar leader an email about any queries. In addition to that, there is also a weekly Monday memo which is great in keeping students up to date on all that’s going on in the department, such as upcoming events, opportunities and responsibilities.
Why Sociology is so important to society
Many people live in societies but don’t understand how they work. Sociology is important because it puts the complex society that we all live in under a microscope and investigates people’s part in the everyday.
The practice recognises the importance of different institutions, cultures, belief systems etc. and their influence on our existence. Sociologists study society with the aim of improving it: enhancing lives, changing laws and reducing equalities.
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