Sociology for Community Development and Youth Work

The aim of this module is to introduce the learner to the discipline of sociology. Drawing upon the writings of Comte, Durkheim, Marx and Weber relating to modernity the module will proceed to consider post-modern frameworks to examine contemporary societies.  The module will explore societal structures, socialisation and family, norms and values, social stratification, education, poverty and culture, with specific attention accorded to processes that lead to inequality and social exclusion.  Through deliberation personal values and life experience are explored, with the intention the learner will be enabled to identify how they see and how others see the world. Through various sociological lenses, individual, community and societal dynamics will explore historical and contemporary social processes that promote equality and sustainability in diverse contexts.  This exploration provides a basis to consider practice which is rights based, anti-discriminatory and culturally competent to work with diverse groups and individuals. A brief introduction to research types linked to specific paradigms provides insights to social research and its purpose will be included. The learner will be encouraged to appreciate the limitations of sociology in relation to understanding the tasks and processes of Community Development and Youth Work. 

1. Evidence a broad introductory knowledge and understanding of the concept of society

2. Describe an introductory knowledge of the historical development of the discipline of sociology from modernity to post-modernity

3. Describe different formations of social divisions that lead to social inequality, discrimination, social exclusion and how to challenge such processes.

4. Evidence an ability to apply fundamental sociological concepts to Community Development and Youth Work contexts, considering theory, policy and practice