This module will provide students with the opportunity to examine key social institutions in Irish society. The module will create a space for students to reflect on social issues as they impact upon individuals and groups in modern society. Students will also be supported in recognising the impact of personal values and life experiences on professional practice. This module will highlight the links between Irish social structures and how they affect professional social care provision. This module will enable students to reflect on evidence-informed research and practice, including an understanding of theories and concepts related to social care work.Students will be encouraged to develop a ‘sociological imagination’ in order to understand the complexity of inter-relationships between the individual, society and wider global processes.
The Family
Different family structures. Demographic change and families. Key theories related to the family. Social care work and its relevance to the family.
Education
Understanding education. Education and socialisation. Social divisions and education. Theories of education.
Criminal Justice System
Understanding crime and deviance. Competing theoretical explanations. Understanding the causes of youth offending; restorative justice and policy responses. The consequences for the social care profession.
Religion
Religion and modern society. The process of secularisation. Theories of religion
Media
The significance of the media in contemporary society. The media and socialisation. Implications for social care work.
Economy
The social impact of economic growth/decline. Sectors of the economy. Privatisation of social care.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 40 |
| Formal Examination | 60 |