A sociological analysis of the complex relationship between football, the media and culture. This module draws on both historical and contemporary understandings of football as a working class pursuit that has gradually shifted into the corporate domain. Analysing the major social changes that have impacted on the development of football as a vehicle for celebrity and the dissemination of norms and values. The module considers the effects of globalisation, industrialisation, new technologies and political economy as factors in the development of the game. Lectures will cover a range of topics and a discussion board delivered via Blackboard will require students to engage with the question set at the end of each lecture.

Assessment 1- 2000 word blog. (80%) This allows the students to produce academic copy in the form of a blog which draws on contemporary research sources (LOS 1,2,3, 4)
Assessment 2 – Discussion Board Contributions (20%). (LOS 1,2,3,4,)

Additional Assessment Details (include formative feedback / assessment):

Assessment briefs will be provided at the start of the semester. Guidance will be provided via Blackboard and through guidance sessions.

Draft feedback will be given for the main assignment.

Nicholson, M. (2015) Sport and the Media: Managing the Nexus.London; Routledge
Giulianotti, R. (2009) Sport: A Critical Sociology, London; Routledge
Dixon, K. (2013) Consuming Football in Late Modern Life. London; Routledge
Cashmore, E., & Dixon, K. (2016) Studying Football, London; Routledge

Lecture theatre, seminar room, OHP, VCR, internet access. Access to up to date journals.

1.Demonstrate a critical and systematic understanding of the centrality of football to sports culture, both historically and as a contemporary phenomenon (Knowledge, Enquiry, Learning, Analysis)

2.Critically evaluate theories purporting to explain the growth, diversification and global presence of football (Knowledge, Enquiry, Learning, Analysis)

3. Critically examine the central role of the media in diffusing, promoting and perpetuating hierarchies within football culture. (Communication, Reflection, Analysis)

4: Demonstrate a critical ability to disseminate ideas on the wider social and cultural influences on football (Communication, Reflection, Analysis)

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (37 hours)   11 x 1 hour of tutor-led lecture programme.  11 x 2 hours of student / tutor directed lecture based analysis. 4 hours (2x2 hours) face-to-face seminars.  Guided Independent Study: (113 hours)  12 hours discussion board interaction. 56 hours assessment preparation. 45 hours undertaking background reading. Including books, journals, current newspapers and internet in order to prepare for seminars and discussions.