A networked computer capable of accessing the internet and running applications such as Blackboard
and Adobe Acrobat.
A Word Processor compatible with Microsoft Word.

Participation in on-line tasks and discussion weighted at 15% [LO 5]
A Virtual Seminar Presentation (1000 Words) weighted at 25%
An Essay length 3,000 words weighted at 60% [LO 1-5]

Key Information Set Data:
100% coursework

This module provides students with the systematic and empirical study of the formation of the social, political and economic institutions of modern societies. The module also explains the development of the modern state in the 21st century, especially its defining characteristics and its most pressing social, political and economic problems.
In the first half of the module, the development of social, political and economic modernity are explored, analysing the different types of societies that existed prior to the development of the modern state; the role of religion, ideology, and social structures; the importance of warfare and capitalism for the development of the modern state; the political, social and economic institutions of the modern state; and the emergence of industrial capitalism and the social organisation of work.
In the second half of the module, processes and concomitant problems related to social, political and economic change in the 21st century are sociologically assessed, including issues such as social inequality, economic globalization and military conflict

The main focus will be on self-instruction, within a tightly structured framework and relying largely (but not exclusively) on materials supplied. Week by week students will work through self-instructional course material (delivered via blackboard), which provides the framework and focus for reading key texts and papers and undertaking the specific tasks set. This work will be undertaken on an individual basis, but students will be expected to interact and share material and ideas with other students in their learning group and their tutor (24 hours). The module will run over 12 weeks

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

Collins, Randall (1994) Four Sociological Traditions, Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Dillon, Michele (2014) Introduction to Sociological Theory. Theorists, Concepts and their Applicability to
the Twenty-First Century, Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.
Giddens, Anthony (2013) Sociology, Cambridge: Polity Press.
Giddens, Anthony and Philip W. Sutton eds (2010) Sociology: Introductory Readings, Cambridge:
Polity Press.
Gieben, Bram and Stuart Hall eds (1992) Formations of Modernity, Cambridge: Polity Press.