Module Descriptors
INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL POLICY
SOCY40326
Key Facts
Faculty of Arts and Creative Technologies
Level 4
30 credits
Contact
Leader:
Email:
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 24
Independent Study Hours: 276
Total Learning Hours: 300
Assessment
  • COURSEWORK - SECOND ESSAY weighted at 50%
  • COURSEWORK -ESSAY weighted at 50%
Module Details
Module Texts
Blakemore, K. & Griggs, E. (3rd ed.)) (2003) Social Policy: An Introduction. Berkshire: Open University Press
Bochel, H. et al (2nd ed) (2009) Social Policy: Issues, Themes and Debates. Essex: Pearson
Lavalette, M. & Pratt, A. (eds.) (3rd ed.) (2006) Social Policy: Theories, Concepts and Issues. London: Sage
Dean, H. (2002) Welfare Rights and Social Policy. Essex: Pearson
Module Learning Strategies
Lectures are supported by group work sessions which encourage students to engage with key issues through informal discussion and debate. Group work will be supported by structured learning materials to enhance understanding of the subject and to develop other key skills. Independent study will consist of preparation for work in class follow up of issues with references to texts and other resources and preparation for assessment. Students will be invited to attend individual tutorials on a voluntary basis and will be encouraged to seek advice to support their learning and to prepare for assessment.


Key Information Set:
16% Learning and Teaching scheduled activities comprising:
10 Lectures
10 Group work sessions
1 Introductory session
1 Feedback session
2 Assessment preparation sessions
Class work will involve semi formal lecture input, group work discussions and exercises.
Class work will be supported by, case studies, structured worksheets, formative feedback and guidance about assessment and source materials.

84% independent guided study comprising:
Guided reading and research, personal tutorials, preparation for scheduled sessions, completion of assessment tasks.
Students will be supported in their work through materials available on Blackboard.
Module Indicative Content
This module introduces students to social policy in contemporary Britain. It considers the nature and development of British social policy and examines sociological approaches to its study. The module explores common themes in social policy including state intervention, needs and resources, definitions of 'social problems' and the ethical debates to which these give rise. The module goes to examine the impact of social policy on people¿s lives within the context of key policy areas such as social security and health.
Module Additional Assessment Details
An ESSAY length 2500 WORDS weighted at 50%.
Learning Outcomes 1 & 2

An ESSAY length 2500 WORDS weighted at 50%
Learning Outcomes 1, 3 & 4


Key Information Set:
100% coursework
Module Resources
Library and Internet facilities
Blackboard
Lecture and seminar rooms with Powerpoint presentation and DVD playback facilities
Seminar rooms suitable for group work