Contemporary Social Issues

The aim of the module is for the student to critically and creatively apply the knowledge, skills and insights of social science studies and research in the evaluation of contemporary social issues. The student will be challenged to ask questions and seek solutions as to how sociological knowledge can be applied to explain the social dimensions and implications of substantive issues. The student will be challenged to further consolidate the content studied throughout the course, and to draw on the insights, skills, attributes and knowledge developed through their studies and fieldwork experiences. This unit will focus on critical contemporary social issues, challenges, and future trends. The student will be encouraged to identify what they understand their contribution to contemporary society may be and how their specialisation or area of interest may best be realised going forward.

Learning Outcomes

  • Describe and discuss a range of contemporary social issues, challenges and opportunities
  • Apply the theory and methodologies of social science to a range of social issues and challenges
  • Apply theoretical and conceptual frameworks for the analysis of contemporary social issues
  • Evaluate research data and information on a range of social issues and challenges
  • Describe specific ways in which individual, group or organisation to addressing
  • Evaluate the merits and limitations of programs dealing with social issues

Content Areas

  • Contemporary Social Issues: Topics and Contexts
  • Contemporary Social Challenges and Opportunities
  • Globalisation
  • Population Flows
  • Indigenous Issues
  • Health and Wellness
  • Education and Training
  • Technology and Innovation
  • Work and Leisure
  • Welfare and the State
  • Media in Society
  • Sustainable Social Systems

Unit Duration and Workload

This unit involves a total of 36 hours of face to face delivery of self directed study including educator contact in flexible delivery modes, generating a further 54 hours of self-study per unit including research and related study activities, including assessment. This translates to 7.5 hours per week for the unit.