Module SOCI3211: Sociology of Gender and Sexuality

Department: Sociology

SOCI3211: Sociology of Gender and Sexuality

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To provide students with conceptual apparatus for understanding the social nature of gender and sexuality
• To enable students to critically analyze dominant discourses of gender and sexuality
• To appreciate the interplay between academics and activists in promoting social equality for members of marginalized groups.

Content

• In this module we will review key issues in the sociology of gender and sexuality, including:
• the social construction of gender and sexuality
• sociobiology and how it relates to sexuality and gender
• feminist theories of gender and sexuality
• the social stratification of masculinities
• the emergence and development of LGBT identities
• studying heterosexuality
• sex work
• the politics of abortion
• sexuality and gender in education and sport
• social change and social movements
• trans issues
• issues in social policy
• race, gender and sexuality
• pornography
• monogamy and relationship types

Learning Outcomes

• At the end of the module students will:
• understand sociological approaches to studying sexuality and gender;
• be able to apply a range of sociological theories and concepts to analyze the construction and organization of sexuality and gender in society;
• be able to critique contemporary cultural discourses on sexuality and gender and explore the effect they have on various social groups;
• understand the historical circumstances that have influenced how we view sex and sexualities today;
• be able to articulate an argument about sexuality and gender by drawing on empirical studies in peer-reviewed journals.

• By the end of the module the typical student will be able to:
• evaluate sociological arguments and evidence in sexuality and gender contexts;
• employ the conceptual apparatus of sociology in relation to gender and sexuality issues;
• apply theoretical concepts and empirical knowledge to develop a sociological argument relating to sexuality and gender
• employ theoretical and methodological skills developed during the module in the development of original arguments around sexuality and gender;
• convey, a critical awareness of the limitations and errors of dominant discourses of sexuality and gender

• By the end of the module the typical student will be able to demonstrate: • Ability to critically analyze social and cultural norms • Ability to develop own arguments • High standard in analysis of academic research and cultural documents • A capacity to improve own learning and performance.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Teaching is based on lectures, seminars and workshops and is structured around the learning outcomes above.
• Lectures are designed to provide a broad framework by addressing major themes, ideas, issues and debates, and to stimulate students to think critically and in new ways about the subject
• Students will be encouraged to develop their learning skills in relation to note taking, wider reading/further study, and time management. They are expected to be active participants in lectures and seminars.
• Seminars will support learning in the module through discussions, set tasks and debates, while workshops will include watching films and critically analyzing them.
• Assessment is by summative essay which will be a critical argument in relation to an area chosen by the student within set parameters. This will be an inquiry-based project that requires the student to work independently on a topic that they have chosen related to gender and sexuality. There will be a requirement of wider reading and some form of empirical data collection will be encouraged.
• These modes of assessment are intended to give students an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of this area of study, and demonstrate their ability to draw on and use appropriate conceptual language.
• A formative essay, given part way through the module, is designed to help students develop the skills and abilities required for summative work.
• This unit will cover a range of topics that some may deem sensitive in nature. There will be discussions of a range of topics including open discussions about bisexuality, homosexuality, transgenderism, pederasty, bestiality, and especially heterosexuality; teaching will include use of sexual language and sexual diagrams. All students taking this module need to be aware that these issues will be discussed in an open, frank and sociological manner.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

One group presentation in the first workshop session where students work collaboratively to develop a 10 minute presentation on a topic they have chosen related to gender and sexuality that demonstrates wider reading on the topic and develops an argument pertaining to the subject. There is an expectation that students participate in discussion in seminars and lectures, as part of formative assessment.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University