1. Lecture-based topic briefings
2. Seminar-based buzz group discussions
3. Provision of detailed learning materials in print and via a virtual learning environment (currently Blackboard)
4. Individual tutorials
5. Guidance on exam preparation and revision
6. Guided reading

Key Information Set:
16% scheduled teaching and learning activities
84% guided independent study

You will examine the `classical' perspectives on societal change and compare and contrast these with more recent attempts to characterise `transitions' in social forms such as post-industrialism, the knowledge/information society thesis, post-fordism and postmodernism. This will be set within a critical analysis of the debate on globalisation and the changing relationship of specific societies and processes to the global level as well as a questioning of the relevance of the notion of `society' to contemporary sociology. More specifically, this will involve an analysis of both major social divisions and identities (social class, gender and ethnicity) and processes such as technological change, the relationship between production and consumption, the emergence of global social movements and the shifting boundaries between state, society and the global system.

Learning Outcomess 1-5

Key Information Set:
100% written exams

Access to:
-Powerpoint/OHP projection facilities
-IInternet and email
-VCR/DVD playback facilities
The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.

Cohen, R. and Kennedy, P. (2007, 2nd edition) Global Sociology (Palgrave Macmillan) [and companion website at www.palgrave.com)
Kumar, K. (2005, 2nd edition) From Post-Industrial to Post-Modern Society (Blackwell)
Swingewood, A. (2000, 3rd edition) A Short History of Sociological Thought (Palgrave Macmillan)
Clarke, S. (2006) From Enlightenment to Risk: social theory and contemporary society (Palgrave Macmillan)
Morrison, K. (1997) Marx, Durkheim, Weber: formations of modern social thought (Sage)
Blom, R. et al (eds.) (2003) The Information Society Reader (Routledge)