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The aims of the module are to introduce students to key theoretical frameworks related to gender and sexuality and the ways in which they have been positioned in the social sciences, by considering specific examples of contemporary political and cultural issues related to gender and sexuality on a national and international level. The module also develops students’ understanding of the history of feminism and its impact on the study of gender and sexuality, as well as of the intersections between gender, sexuality, race, class and other axes of difference. Finally, the module aims to develop students’ skills in written, visual and spoken communication, with consideration for the audience.

On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
1. Identify, evaluate and apply key concepts and theoretical perspectives of gender and sexuality.
2. Understand and critically analyse the ways in which gender, sexuality, race, class and other axes of difference are co-constructed and situated in society.
3. Critically evaluate social and cultural attitudes towards gender and sexuality.
4. Demonstrate skills in written, visual and spoken communication, with consideration for the audience.

This module examines a range of key concepts and theoretical perspectives on gender and sexuality, and the ways in which they have been positioned within the social sciences. The module investigates the history of feminism and its impact on the study of gender and sexuality, as well as the important role that gender and sexuality have in regulating social life and beliefs. Finally, the module explores the intersections between gender, sexuality, race, class and other axes of difference, and makes use of feminist postcolonial and critical race theories in order to understand the co-construction of social identities.

Seminar: Seminars focus on a specific contemporary political and cultural issue related to gender and sexuality, which students work in groups to understand, explain and analyse with reference to the sociological concepts and theories covered each week. Seminars also provide support for assessed work.
Lecture: Lectures provide an overview of the key sociological and social scientific content, and signpost the sources, approaches and level at which students are expected to engage.
Group Study: Seminars incorporate group study, with students working in the same groups throughout most of the module to analyse examples of contemporary political and cultural issues related to gender and sexuality. The groups also function as peer mentoring groups in preparation for the summative assessment.
Self-Directed Learning: Set readings and advisable independent study directed through Moodle, in seminars and lectures. The module handbook and Moodle page provide detailed guidance for self-directed study, including weekly key readings, examples, additional resources and assessments.

Presentation: 100% weighting, 40% pass mark.
Learning Outcomes: 1 - 4.
Word Length: Variable word limit, 10-minute presentation.
Outline Details: Poster presentation discussing and analysing a contemporary political or cultural issue related to gender and sexuality, with reference to theories and concepts of gender and sexuality.

Formative Assessment: Seminars focus explicitly on developing assessment plans, incorporating group and individual work. Tutor/peer feedback will also be provided on assessment plans to support student learning and assessment preparation.