bachelor of science (applied social sciences) first year ...ssrc.ie/bass/docs/gy123 - first year...

Bachelor of Science (Applied Social Sciences)

First Year Student Handbook Academic Year

2020 - 2021

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Programme Code: GY123

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Programme General Information ...................................................................... 2

Programme Outline ......................................................................................... 2

Progression to Year Two ................................................................................... 2

Our Vision for the Programme........................................................................... 2

Student Representative.................................................................................... 2

Programme Announcements and Information Forums .......................................... 2

Email Policy .................................................................................................... 2

Communicating with Academic Staff .................................................................. 3

Student Welfare .............................................................................................. 3

Student Attendance at Lecturers, Tutorials and Seminars ..................................... 3

Student Absences ........................................................................................... 3

Student Code of Conduct ................................................................................. 3

Key Programme Personnel............................................................................ 4

Year One Modules .......................................................................................... 5

BSS1101 - Introduction to the Study of the Social Sciences .............................. 5

SP158 – Introduction to Politics & Sociology ................................................... 7

SP159 – Concepts and Practices of Politics & Sociology ..................................... 9

SP1118/1119 - Practising Sociology and Politics 1/2....................................... 11

TI150 - Principles of Human Geography ....................................................... 13

TI151 - Principles of Physical Geography ...................................................... 15

TI1100 - Geography in Practice 1/2 ............................................................. 17

EC1110 - Introduction to Economic Policy ..................................................... 19

BSS1100 - Digital Citizenship...................................................................... 21

BSS 1102 – Digital Skills for the Social Sciences ............................................ 23

Frequently Asked Questions .......................................................................... 25

Year One - Semester One Timetable ............................................................... 27

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Programme General Information

Programme Outline: The programme is a modular degree, combining core and elective modules relating to social scientific research and study, as well as modules that are strongly focussed on enhancing students’ contemporary skills and

employability. Students will be given a broad understanding of the Social Sciences in years one and two, undertake career development and an internship with an NGO or SME in year three, and choose a specific study pathway in year four that is most suited

to their planned chosen career pathway or further education opportunities. The final grade for all BASS graduates will be based on 30% Second Year results and 70% of Final Year results.

Progression to Year Two: Students should note that this is a pass by module programme and students are, therefore, required to pass all modules, in both

semesters one and two, to progress to year two.

Our Vision for the Programme: This programme will have a contemporary focus

equipping students with relevant skills in the Social Sciences to advance their preferred career choice, or to avail of further educational opportunities at Master’s and

Doctoral levels. Students will engage with, and seek to address, present-day critical social, environmental and economic problems and concerns with creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship in a cooperative and supportive learning environment.

Student Representative: Students are encouraged to have a collective voice in the on-going design and running of the Bachelor of Science (Applied Social Sciences)

programme. The student representative(s) is a point person who conveys student issues and concerns directly to the Programme Coordinator and/or Directors.

A weekly programme work review will take place each Friday during semester one in room AC201, Arts/Sciences Concourse, at 10am. This is an additional opportunity and forum for students to have their say in the running of the

programme. This weekly meeting is also a forum for students to assess and evaluate their workload, and to seek assistance and advice from their peers and BASS programme team.

Programme Announcements and Information Forums: Blackboard is an e-facility to check on programme and module announcements, staff information, download

readings and lecture notes, upload all assessments, and obtain marks and grades. THIS IS THE MAIN MEDIUM OF CUMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE PROGRAMME COORDINATOR AND DIRECTORS, AND ALL TEACHING STAFF, WITH ALL FIRST YEAR

STUDENTS. YOU MUST ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE ACCESS TO THE BLACKBOARD SYSTEM AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AT THE BEGINNING OF SEMESTER ONE.

Email Policy: Please only use your nuigalway.ie email account for communicating with all School, Discipline and programme personnel. Mail from all other e-mail addresses

will not, normally, receive a response.

Students are expected to regularly check their nuigalway.ie e-mail account for

announcements and notices.

Students should also demonstrate courtesy and respect at all times when

communication through their student e-mail account. Please remember that you are in an academic environment and should address members of staff by their appropriate titles in all communications. Furthermore, when using your

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nuigalway.ie e-mail account for any correspondences outside the university environment be mindful that you are representing the programme, the College

of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies, and the National University of Ireland Galway and so communicate in a courteous and thoughtful manner that reflects well on yourself and the university.

Communicating with Academic Staff: For all communications with academic staff, please make sure to consult all materials on School and Departmental webpages and

Blackboard prior to asking additional questions you may have. Also, please make sure to e-mail in advance to arrange any meeting with staff members outside of their stated consultation/office hours. When writing an e-mail to staff it is important to be

courteous, professional, and concise. For example, you should make sure that your opening address conveys a professional tone; e.g. Dear Dr Hynes, etc. If your query

is directed at teaching staff, please ensure that your e-mail also includes a subject line, your name, student ID, and the name/code of the module in which you are participating. Please be aware that due to the large number of e-mails received by

academic staff on a daily basis you must allow adequate time for them to respond. Finally, please check your NUIG e-mail account regularly as this is the main medium that university staff and administration will contact you.

Student Welfare: We recognise that students may, at times, have particular difficulties that impact upon their capacity to complete their studies to the best of their

ability. Every effort will be made to accommodate students, and we would encourage you in this regard to communicate your situation to us in a timely fashion if you feel we can be of assistance. You should also be aware of the wide range of student support

services available to you on campus, whose role is also to help students reach their potential both academically and personally. Details on these student services are available on the following link: www.nuigalway.ie/student_services.

Student Attendance at Lecturers, Tutorials and Seminars: STUDENT ATTENDANCE IS COMPULOSARY AT ALL SCHEDULED LECTURES, TUTORIALS AND SEMINARS,

WITHOUT EXCEPTION. This is a full-time degree programme and students must view their studies as a full-time commitment and preform to the best of their ability.

Student Absences: If your absence from lectures or programme activities is due to illness, a medical certificate should be submitted online directly to the College of Arts:

https://nuigalway-srnxv.formstack.com/forms/medical. If your absence relates to other circumstances, it is your responsibility to communicate in a timely way with the module Lecturer or Tutor, and/or with the first year co-ordinator Dr Mike Hynes. If

you are experiencing difficulties in keeping up with coursework during the year for whatever reason you are strongly advised to let us know while there is ample time to offer constructive advice and assistance. If we are not aware of issues until near the

end of a semester it is usually very difficult to provide real and practical support and help. You will find that we are very approachable and willing to be accommodating and in making your situation known to us we will regard you as having acted in a

mature and responsible manner. It is our wish to see you perform to the best of your ability and enjoy the entire four year programme of study.

Student Code of Conduct: AS A STUDENT, YOU ALSO HAVE RESPONSIBILITIES IN RELATION TO YOUR CONDUCT ON AND OFF CAMPUS. The University has outlined a comprehensive explanatory statement in this regard, which we would urge you to read

and be familiar with. Once you accept a place as a student at NUIG you are automatically bound by its code of conduct (see www.nuigalway.ie/codeofconduct).

http://www.nuigalway.ie/student_services

https://nuigalway-srnxv.formstack.com/forms/medical

http://www.nuigalway.ie/codeofconduct

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Key Programme Personnel

First Year Programme Coordinator

Dr Mike Hynes

Room 323, 2nd Floor, Áras Moyola

School of Political Science & Sociology

National University of Ireland Galway

Email address: [email protected]

Phone: +353 91 49 5104

Office Hours: Tuesday 3pm to 4pm

Wednesday 3pm to 4pm (or by appointment)

Second Year Programme Coordinator

Dr Siubhán Comer

Discipline of Geography

Arts Science Concourse


Email address: [email protected]

Phone: TBC

Office Hours: Wednesday 3pm to 4pm (or by appointment)

Programme Director (On Sabbatical)

Prof Frances Fahy

Discipline of Geography

Arts Science Concourse


Email address: N/A

Phone: N/A

Office Hours: N/A.

mailto:[email protected]


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Year One Modules

BSS1101 - Introduction to the Study of the Social Sciences

Semester One

Times Thursday 2pm to 3:50pm

Room IT202, Information Technology Building

Course Leader Dr Gary Goggins

School of Geography and Archaeology

E-mail [email protected]

Phone N/A

Office Hours Available by appointment.

Module Description

This interdisciplinary module provides an introduction to the full spectrum of human behaviour, from geography, sociology, political sciences, psychology to economics.

The module will introduce students to ideas and debates on contemporary society and will focus on a number of key areas at the centre of life in Ireland and the EU. The first section will explore changing cultures within our society through an analysis

of contemporary ‘consumer society’. The issue of identity and difference will be the focus of the second section of the module. This will draw on topics of population change and migration in an Irish and European context. Using contemporary case

studies the final section will examine ‘order’ and ‘disorder’ within societies and it will explore the participation and relationship society has to politics.


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Key Course Themes

Consumer Society

We will explore changing cultures within our society through an analysis of contemporary ‘consumer society’

Population & Migration and Identity & Difference

The issue of identity, difference and culture will be the focus of the second and third section of the module. It will draw on case studies of population change and

migration in an Irish and European context

Order & Disorder

The final section will examine ‘order’ and ‘disorder’ within societies. This set of lectures will focus on change and flux within administrations and in particular EU structures and it will explore the participation and relationship society has to politics

in particular.

Module Aims

Provide students with a firm foundation and understanding of what studying the Social Sciences entails

Introducing the subjects and disciplines within the Social Sciences

Students will explore changing cultures within our society through an analysis of contemporary ‘consumer society’

The issue of identity and difference will be the focus of the second and third

section of the module. It will draw on case studies of population change and migration in an Irish and European context

The final section will examine ‘order’ and ‘disorder’ within societies and it will

explore the participation and relationship society has to politics.

Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module students will be able to:

Identify key issues and debates at the centre of life in Ireland and the EU Demonstrate an understanding about how social scientists investigate and

answer questions about society Write in a way that explores, synthesises and critiques academic material Effectively communicate information and arguments in a variety of forms.

Module Assessment

The module will be assessed by:

a) An end-of-semester 2,000 word essay (50%)

b) Group presentation (40%), for which 20% will be awarded for presentation and 20% for individual written reflection

c) 10% continuous assessment.

Key Reading Material

Hunt, E. F., & Colander, D. C. (1984) Social Science: An introduction to the study of society, 15 Ed., Macmillan Publishers Co: New York

Isaacs, S. (2016) European Social Problems, Routledge: London Smart, B. (2010) Consumer Society, Sage Publishing: London.

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SP158 – Introduction to Politics & Sociology

Semester One

Times & Rooms Monday 10am to 10:50am (Kirwan Theatre)

Tuesday 12noon to 12:50pm (O’Flaherty Theatre)

Friday 12noon to 12:50pm (O’Flaherty Theatre)

First Year Programme Coordinators

Ms Jacqueline Murphy

2nd Floor, Áras Moyola

[email protected]

Dr Judith O’Connell


[email protected]

Module Lecturers Dr Brendan Flynn

Dr. Niall O’Dochartaigh

Dr. Cormac Forkan

Dr. Stacey Scriver.

Module Description

The School of Political Science and Sociology is unique in Ireland for offering two academic disciplines in a fully integrated way. Political Science is the systematic

study of political life, political activity or behaviour, as well as basic political concepts such as freedom, democracy, and equality. It combines elements of history, economics, and philosophy but has its own unique approach and style. Sociology is

the study of society, social issues, and social activities or practices. It includes a factual dimension in the collection and critique of social facts and trends, together with a more critical and theoretical literature which reflects on the general nature of



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society, social order, and social problems. Both disciplines aim to provide detailed factual information about the nature of social and political life in our societies, but

they also try to generate deeper arguments and analysis about why our societies are the way they are, and if they could be improved. This module provides an introduction to basic concepts in political science and sociology, Irish society and

politics, political sociology, and political and social theory and practice.

Module Aims

To introduce students to the concepts and theories used in the study of contemporary politics and society (e.g. society, state, modernity, power, identity, freedom, equality, government, democracy, capitalism,

environmentalism, globalisation) To present key areas in political science and sociology. Students are

introduced to core ideas and arguments and learn how to analyse political

and social phenomena from disciplinary perspectives.


By the end of this module students will be able:

To demonstrate knowledge of the key assumptions, ideas, concepts, values, and practices of politics and sociology and to apply political and sociological knowledge to the analysis of core debates on contemporary issues,

controversies, and problems, locally and globally To appreciate the complementary disciplines of political science and sociology

as they critically engage with the formation and transformation of political and social ideas, actions, and institutions of state and society

To acquire academic skills such as critical reading and analysis, using

different material sources as research tools, oral presentation, report writing, and competent use of academic language and concepts.

Module Assessment

This is a large lecture-based module assessed solely by an end-of-semester 50 multiple-choice question (MCQ) examination.


EITHER First Year Sociological and Political Studies – Sociology Textbook

(2013). Compiled by Vesna Malesevic. Harlow: Pearson. o OR Macionis, J. J. and Plummer, K (2011/2008) Sociology. A Global

Introduction, 5th/4th edition. Harlow: Pearson 301 MAC (5th edition

also available as e-book) Tovey, H. Share, P. Corcoran, M (2007/2003) A Sociology of Ireland, 3rd/2nd

editions. Dublin: Gill and Macmillan. 301.09417 TOV

Coakley, J. and Gallagher, M. (eds.) (2010/2005) Politics in the Republic of Ireland, 5th/4th edition. London: Routledge. 320.9417 POL (4th edition also available as e-book)

Heywood, A. (2012/2007/2003) Political Ideologies, 5th/4th/3rd edition. New York: Palgrave-Macmillan. 320.5 HEY.

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SP159 – Concepts and Practices of Politics & Sociology

Semester Two

Times & Rooms Monday 10am to 10:50am (Kirwan Theatre)

Tuesday 12noon to 12:50pm (IT250 Information

Technology Building)

Friday 12noon to 12:50pm (O’Flaherty Theatre)

First Year Programme

Coordinators

Ms Jacqueline Murphy

2nd Floor, Áras Moyola

[email protected]

Dr Judith O’Connell


[email protected]

Module Lecturers Ms Jacqueline Murphy

Dr Stacey Scriver

Dr Kevin Ryan

Dr Mike Hynes

Dr Allyn Fives.

Module Description

The School of Political Science and Sociology is unique in Ireland for offering two academic disciplines in a fully integrated way. Political Science is the systematic study of political life, political activity or behaviour, as well as basic political concepts

such as freedom, democracy, and equality. It combines elements of history, economics, and philosophy but has its own unique approach and style. Sociology is the study of society, social issues, and social activities or practices. It includes a



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factual dimension in the collection and critique of social facts and trends, together with a more critical and theoretical literature which reflects on the general nature of

society, social order, and social problems. Both disciplines aim to provide detailed factual information about the nature of social and political life in our societies, but they also try to generate deeper arguments and analysis about why our societies

are the way they are, and if they could be improved. This module continues to provide an introduction to basic concepts in political science and sociology, Irish society and politics, political sociology, and political and social theory and practice.

Module Aims

To introduce students to the concepts and theories used in the study of

contemporary politics and society (e.g. society, state, modernity, power, identity, freedom, equality, government, democracy, capitalism, environmentalism, globalisation)

To present key areas in political science and sociology. Students are introduced to core ideas and arguments and learn how to analyse political and social phenomena from disciplinary perspectives.


By the end of this module students will be able:

To demonstrate knowledge of the key assumptions, ideas, concepts, values,

and practices of politics and sociology and to apply political and sociological knowledge to the analysis of core debates on contemporary issues,

controversies, and problems, locally and globally To appreciate the complementary disciplines of political science and sociology

as they critically engage with the formation and transformation of political

and social ideas, actions, and institutions of state and society To acquire academic skills such as critical reading and analysis, using

different material sources as research tools, oral presentation, report writing,

and competent use of academic language and concepts.

Module Assessment

This is a large lecture-based module assessed solely by an end-of-semester 50

multiple-choice question (MCQ) examination.


EITHER First Year Sociological and Political Studies – Sociology Textbook (2013). Compiled by Vesna Malesevic. Harlow: Pearson.

o OR Macionis, J. J. and Plummer, K (2011/2008) Sociology. A Global Introduction, 5th/4th edition. Harlow: Pearson 301 MAC (5th edition also available as e-book)

Tovey, H. Share, P. Corcoran, M (2007/2003) A Sociology of Ireland, 3rd/2nd editions. Dublin: Gill and Macmillan. 301.09417 TOV


Heywood, A. (2012/2007/2003) Political Ideologies, 5th/4th/3rd edition. New

York: Palgrave-Macmillan. 320.5 HEY.

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SP1118/1119 - Practising Sociology and Politics 1/2

Semesters One and Two

Times Monday 11am to 12:50pm

Thursday 10am to 11:50am

Room Room 333, 2nd Floor

Áras Moyola

Seminar Tutors/Facilitators Dr Mike Hynes

Office Hours Tuesday 3pm to 4pm

Wednesday 3pm to 4pm.

Module Description

This seminar series is designed to promote inquiry based learning, to enhance

practical scholarship skills while engaging with real world problems. Students work in small groups under the guidance of a seminar tutor/facilitator. Students are introduced to critical reading, taking effective notes, gathering information and

using the library, online sources and Blackboard, working in groups, giving presentations, preparing and writing essays, using academic language, referencing, and revising and taking exams, preparing for future subject and career choices.

There is an explicit focus on linking academic content and skills training, for example through the use of sociological and political science texts in skills training sessions.

Module Aims

Despite the challenges of global diversity and the pervasiveness of conflict, human beings are also disposed to act co-operatively and collectively, seeking solutions to problems. A core theme in sociology and political science concerns how and why

societies change, and what alternatives might be possible? This module encourages students to explore the links between sociological and political perspectives in

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relation to real world issues and puzzles in small group seminars designed as student-centred learning environments. The module will provide students the

opportunity to develop academic skills: i.e. reading texts critically, taking effective notes, gathering information and using the library, using the internet as a research tool, completing assignments and working in groups, giving presentations,

preparing and writing essays, using academic language, revising for and taking exams, and preparing for future subject and career choices.



Critically read and assess Sociological and Political Science texts

Prepare and effectively deliver an in-class presentation, supported by visual aids (e.g. PowerPoint, Prezi)

Write short reports and summaries of readings

Write well-structured and coherent essays that meet academic standards Use diverse tools and sources for information gathering (e.g. books, journal

articles, online sources)

Effectively utilise Blackboard as a learning tool Actively participate in small-group sessions and in-class discussions.

Module Assessment

The module will be assessed (per semester) as follows:

a) Student participation (12 hours per semester)

b) Four in-class assignments (250-500 words, worth 10% each) c) One group presentation (10-15 minutes, worth 10% each) d) Two essays (2,000 words, worth 50% each).


EITHER First Year Sociological and Political Studies – Sociology Textbook

(2013). Compiled by Vesna Malesevic. Harlow: Pearson o OR Macionis, J. J. and Plummer, K (2011/2008) Sociology. A Global

Introduction, 5th/4th edition. Harlow: Pearson 301 MAC (5th edition

also available as e-book) Tovey, H. Share, P. Corcoran, M (2007/2003) A Sociology of Ireland, 3rd/2nd

editions. Dublin: Gill and Macmillan. 301.09417 TOV


Heywood, A. (2012/2007/2003) Political Ideologies, 5th/4th/3rd edition. New York: Palgrave-Macmillan. 320.5 HEY.

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TI150 - Principles of Human Geography

Semester One

Times and Rooms Monday 3pm to 3:50pm (O’hEocha Theatre)

Tuesday 5pm to 5:50pm (Anderson Theatre)

Wednesday 12noon to 12:50pm (O’Flaherty Theatre)

Course Leaders

Email

Phone

Dr John McDonagh

Department of Geography

Room 122, Arts/Science Concourse

[email protected]

Ext. 2569

Office Hours TBC.

Module Description

This module seeks to introduce problems, concepts and context within Human Geography. Its focus is a contemporary one: it strives to illuminate the world of

today by exploring and analysing the origin of central issues that make the headlines (or not) in the media and beyond. The module places lectures alongside the information given in the textbook; for examination purposes, both are essential.

Major Themes Covered in the Module

Cultural Geography

Urban Geography Political Geography Environment and Society

Social Geography Economic Geographies


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Geographies of Advanced Economics Development Geographies.



Recognise and differentiate the key concepts within human geography Recognise and evaluate central issues and recent research within the field of

human geography.

Module Assessment

The module will be assessed by

a) 85% will be determined by an end-of-semester examination, i.e. 50 question

Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) b) 15% will be determined by in-class participation (via Student Response

Systems).

Workload

Credit weighting: 5 ECTS

Lecture hours: 30 hours

Independent & Directed

Learning (Non-contact): 70 hours

Total workload: 100 hours.


Required readings for this module will be posted on Blackboard.

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TI151 - Principles of Physical Geography

Semester Two

Times & Rooms Monday 3pm to 3:50pm (Anderson Theatre)

Tuesday 5pm to 5:50pm (Anderson Theatre)

Wednesday 12noon to 12:50pm (O’Flaherty

Theatre)

Course Leaders

Email

Phone

Dr John McDonagh

Department of Geography


[email protected]

Ext. 2569

Office Hours TBC.

Module Description

This module is designed to provide insight and understanding into the fundamental concepts and principles of physical geography as an academic discipline. In doing this, the module explores how the physical environment functions; how different

environmental systems interact and how the physical environment impacts on human activities. The module explores the various components that make up these environmental systems, such as the biosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere and

geosphere. In addition the module also provides some understanding of how these fundamentals apply to Ireland and in so doing gives an insight into the richness of the physical geography of Ireland.


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Major Themes Covered in the Module

The Biosphere: Biography – species distribution and ecosystems The atmosphere: Weather and Climate The Hydrosphere: Rivers

The Geosphere: Coasts.



Identify major earth processes and landforms and how they influence climate and species distribution

Recognise how physical geography data are presented within the scientific

community Examine and apply relationships between physical processes and current

societal issues (e.g., climate change, flooding, coastal management).

Module Assessment


a) 70% - end-of-semester 40 question Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) examination

b) 15% - online quizzes via Blackboard

c) 15% - in-class participation (via Student Response Systems).


Peterson, Sack and Gabler. (2014). Fundamentals of Physical Geography.

Second Edition. Belmont, CA: Cengage Learning.

This text will be made available to students via an online e-book access through the Hardiman Library.

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TI1100 - Geography in Practice 1/2

Semester One and Two

Times TI1100 will meet periodically during Wednesday lecture periods

Support Sessions Mon, Tues & Wed

Course Leader Dr Valeria Ledwith

Department of Geography,



Phone Ext. 2372

Office Hours Wednesday 10am – 12noon (or by appointment).

Module Description

This module introduces first year geography students to a range of field-based learning environments designed to enhance their learning experience and develop their research competences. Supported by class-based teaching and technical

instruction, students undertake a series of themed tutorials and projects involving observation and measurement techniques, geographical mapping, topographic and geological data, and relevant methods of analysis and reporting.

Module Aims

Provide students with basic skills for appropriate writing and literature

citation in geography Introduce field components and provide students with field-based skills in

both human and physical geographies


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Provide students with basic skills for mapping, data representation and Geographical Information System (GIS).



Comprehend a range of observation and sampling techniques Identify relevant primary and secondary sources of geographical data Compile reports and essays in a well-structured and coherent way and in line

with appropriate academic conventions Identify geographical phenomena in a field-based context Recognise the significance of a geographical perspective for research

Demonstrate familiarity with relevant equipment and technical supports for fieldwork in geography.

Practical & Associated Lecture Outline, Content, and Module Assessment

A separate exercise handbook is provided to students (electronically via Blackboard) during the first week of classes. This contains information and instructions for all the module exercises. Beginning in Week 3, students will be introduced to exercises

during the Wednesday lecture (see lecture schedule for relevant module). This will be followed by THREE drop-in tutorials prior to the submission deadline (see GiP handbook for details). CÉIM sessions on Thursday from 12noon to 12:50pm can also

be used for help with completion of exercises.

Students will complete 10 exercises (5 each semester). Your final mark in this module is reliant on the timely completion of these tutorials.

Students submit all tutorial assessments via a Turnitin link OR online quiz on Blackboard.

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EC1110 - Introduction to Economic Policy

Semester One

Times Tuesday 9am to 10:50am

Room ENG–G047 in the Engineering Building

Course Leader Stephen McNena

Room 233, St. Anthony’s, Cairnes Building


Phone Ext. 3053.

Module Description

This module explores, at an introductory level, the framework within which public and social policy is formed and operates in Ireland. The central aim is to impart an

understanding of the constraints which frame public policy, and to enable structured assessments of the impact of policy, especially economic policy. Students will cover several public policies that have an impact on the economy, society and our lives.



Recognise the significance of public policy to the well-being of citizens Be more confident when analysing or debating public policy issues See both sides of a public policy argument or discussion

Recognise the economic and social constraints involved in public policy issues Apply basic economic principles to various social policy issues, e.g. income

inequality, minimum wages, housing, etc.

Describe the economic and social rationale for State and EU intervention in various sectors of society.


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Module Assessment


a) Written end-of-semester examination (60%). b) Continuous assessment (40%).

Workload

Credit weighting: 5 ECTS

Lecture hours: 24 hours

Directed study, preparation for class: 24 hours

Assignments: 13 hours

Preparation for in-class tests: 12 hours

Tests: 3 hours

Preparation for exam: 24 hours

Total workload: 100 hours


Healy, S., Reynolds B. and Collins, M., eds. (2006) Social Policy in Ireland,

Dublin: The Liffey Press Grada (1997) A Rocky Road: the Irish Economy since the 1920s, Manchester:

Manchester University Press

O’Hagan, J. and Newman, C., eds. (2014) The Economy of Ireland, Dublin: Gill Education. [ISBN 9780717159758].

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BSS1100 - Digital Citizenship

Semester One

Times Monday 4pm to 4:50pm

Friday 11am to 11:50am

Room AC201, Arts Science Concourse

Course Leader Dr Mike Hynes



Phone Ext. 5104



Module Description

The advances of technology, the impacts of social media, and the technological trends influencing our everyday lives have resulted in the creation of an online society, a global society. Just as we are citizens of our country, we are now citizens

of the online society and as such we need to learn how to use these technologies appropriately. Moreover, we need to ensure that we learn how to use technology for the betterment of ourselves as well as society as a whole. Now more than ever it is

crucial to understand our role as digital citizens in an ever-changing world. This module will help students to navigate this world and equip them with the knowledge required to be actively engaged in the digital community. It will also compare the

behaviours expected in a face-to-face community with those expressed online and emphasise the importance of understanding the various technologies while practising safe, legal and ethical behaviours online.


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Module Aims

Provide students with a practical overview of different services available on the internet, and other Information Communication Technologies (ICT), that can benefit better Social Scientific research and dissemination

Explore safety, ethical and legal issues with regards to technology design, development and use

Critically examine the advantages and limitations of the digital world

Provides students with the opportunity to use a variety of online services to communicate, collaborate, interact, purchase, find information and study online safely and securely

Facilitate and promote dialogue and discussion about online activities, particularly the appropriate and inappropriate use of social media.


By the end of this module students will be:

Confident and capable users of Information Communication Technologies (ICT)

Be literate in the language, symbols, and texts of digital technologies Use technologies to participate in educational, cultural, and economic

activities in an ethical and legal way

Use and develop critical thinking in cyberspace, be aware of ICT challenges and manage these effectively

Demonstrate honesty and integrity and ethical behaviour in their use of ICT and respect the concepts of privacy and freedom of speech in a digital world.

Module Assessment


An end-of-semester blog post of at least 2,000 words, which should be accompanied by visual and audio material; this blog post is allocated 50% of

the marks for the course. The latest date for submitting the post is 17th November 2017 (Session 11). This blog post will be peer-reviewed and posted online. Late submissions are subject to penalty.

The remaining 50% of the marks derive from ‘teaching and learning’ evaluation which is continuous throughout the course. This evaluation may include the setting up of an appropriate online career profile and the keeping

of an online journal to assist the students understanding and learning. In addition, there will be weekly in-class presentations by students and practical use of online resources. Class attendance and participation will form a key

part of the overall evaluation mark.


Adams, A., and McCrindle, R. (2008). Pandora’s Box: Social and Professional Issues of the Information Age. Chichester, West Sussex, UK: John Wiles & Sons, Ltd. Location in James Hardiman Library: 303.4833 ADA.

Please Note

This module will overlap with elements of Library Training & Personal Development which will be held weekly on Wednesday from 9am to 11am.

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BSS 1102 – Digital Skills for the Social Sciences

Semester Two

Times Tuesday 9am to 10:50am

Room AC201, Arts Science Concourse

Course Leader Dr Mike Hynes



Phone Ext. 5104



Module Description

The use of digital Information Communication Technology (ICT) is now ubiquitous

in our everyday lives and the need for social science students to be computer literate and have the ability and competency to use many of the widely available applications and platforms assumes more significance in the 21st century. Building

upon the Digital Citizenship module in semester one, Digital Skills for the Social Sciences will equip students with the necessary skills and proficiencies to effectively navigate the vast number of digital technologies tools at their disposal. In particular,

students will learn the fundamentals of some of the key Microsoft applications, such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint, while also demonstrating an ability to navigate and appropriately unitise the internet as a valuable contemporary research tool.

Students will also acquire an understanding of referencing software applications, such as EndNote and Zotero, while also expanding upon the need for, and use of, social media to create and maintain a professional online presence.


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Module Aims

Provide students with an overview and understanding of the different software, applications and platforms services available across the university, and how to access these in a manner that is informed by issues such as

copyright and privacy Explain the basic features of some of the key Microsoft applications such as

Word, Excel and PowerPoint

Offer an overview of the features and working of two referencing software applications; namely EndNote and Zotero

Provide an understanding of the need to create and maintain a professional

online social media presences, and be able to assess and learn using an online learning environment

Demonstrate to students the need and use of the internet as an important

research resource and tool for social science students in the 21st century.



Demonstrate an awareness of how to access and manage the many digital services, software and applications available at NUI Galway

Design a suitable CV template using MS Word, a spreadsheet using MS Excel,

and a presentation using MS PowerPoint, convert these to pdf and organise and arrange these for printing

Locate, explain and use the main features in the referencing software EndNote and Zotero

Recognise the need to create and maintain a professional online social media

presence Identify and explain the key uses of the internet as a social scientific research

tool and resource.

Module Assessment


End-of-semester essay (25%)

Continuous assessment (75%).


Laing, R. (2015). Microsoft Office Basics - Everyday Guides Made Easy. London: Flame Three Publishing. Location in James Hardiman Library: 005.5 LAI

Ó Dochartaigh, N. (2012). Internet Research Skills. London: SAGE. Location in James Hardiman Library: 025.04 ODO

Lancaster, T. (2014). Teaching Students about Online Professionalism:

Enhancing Student Employability through Social Media. Chapter 13 in Benson, V. and Morgan, S. (eds). Cutting-edge technologies and social media use in Higher Education. Hershey, PA: Information Science Reference: An

Imprint of IGI Global 2014 (pp. 320-341). Location in James Hardiman Library: 371.334 CUT.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I’m not used to writing academic essays: how or where can I get help? Students will receive direction and help by means of in-class tasks, assignments, and

essay structure advice, from their module/seminar tutors/teachers and fellow students. Many small seminars are designed to develop a student’s academic writing and guidelines are provided in relevant discipline handbooks. Further help is available

to all students in the form of the Academic Writing Centre (contact the library directly or email [email protected]). ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Do I need to stick to the word limit on my essays? The word limits are given for a specific reason in each case so it is important to aim

for the particular word count instructed. Penalties will apply if the word count is more than 10% below or above the word limit. These word limits relate to the main text so exclude bibliography and footnotes.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Can I email assignments and essays?

No; email submission of examinable material is not accepted nor admissible. All examinable materials are required to be uploaded through Turnitin on Blackboard and a digital receipt, plus the relevant submission form, handed to the lecturer/tutor on

the proposed date. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- How can I find out about Turnitin?

Information on Turnitin is available from your seminar or module tutors or by following the link www.nuigalway.ie/teaching-with-technology/technologies/turnitin/.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What is Plagiarism and what is the policy?

Plagiarism means presenting the words of another writer as if they were your own. It refers to stealing, without acknowledgement, from any other writer, including fellow students. Copying another student’s essay is as reprehensible as plagiarising a literary

critic or a website. This is a serious matter, and if it is detected in your essay it may result in an automatic failure mark. The way to avoid plagiarism is very simple; always put quotation marks around someone else's words and credit them to their source.

Further information can be found at: www.nuigalway.ie/plagiarism/ and see www.nuigalway.ie/current_students/university_code_conduct/index.php. For first

year students, suspected cases of plagiarism will initially be referred to the year coordinator and addressed as per internal policy. Cases may then be referred onwards depending on the seriousness of the circumstances.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What is the procedure for dealing with conflict or querying my marks and grades?

Your first port-of-call is to make contact with your module tutor, teacher or lecturer. There may be issues that you are not considering when calculating your marks, for example. If you are still unhappy you should go directly to the first year programme

coordinator (Dr Mike Hynes) or the programme director (Prof France Fahy). If you are still unhappy you can appeal directly to the College of Arts, Social Science and Celtic Studies; Catherine McCurry is the direct contact in this instance (email

[email protected]). ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


http://www.nuigalway.ie/teaching-with-technology/technologies/turnitin/

http://www.nuigalway.ie/plagiarism/

http://www.nuigalway.ie/current_students/university_code_conduct/index.php


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What do I do if I run into difficulties with time to submit an assignment or essay?

We all can run into difficulties from time-to-time so your first pot-of-call, again, is your module tutor, teacher or lecturer BEFORE THE STATED DEADLINE. He/she may be in a position to give you an extension on the submission of your assignment or essay

based on documented medical evidence or for other exceptional circumstances. If this is not possible you should contact the School or Department Year Coordinator (or indeed the Programme Coordinator Dr Mike Hynes) to make your request. It is

important to note that penalties may apply to such extension so please consult the module handbook in each particular case. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Do I have to register for Blackboard? Students are automatically enrolled on Blackboard once registered with the University.

Your courses will then appear once you log on with your username and password. It is advisable to confirm your access to Blackboard before needing it for important module information, online contributions, or deadlines. Further information on

Blackboard is available at nuigalway.blackboard.com/. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I’m having a problem with my student online account or email account?

The Information Solutions and Services (ISS) Department provides support and advice

to students experiencing IT problems (see www.nuigalway.ie/information-solutions-services/). Assistance is provided via the ticketing service and Helpdesk (at servicedesk.nuigalway.ie/) or by ringing extension 5777. Please note, ISS are not in

a position to assist students with their personal computer & laptop problems. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Are there other types of supports for students?

Students are entitled to draw on the network of support services across the University (please see www.nuigalway.ie/student_services/ for further information). The

Disability Support Service (see www.nuigalway.ie/disability/) promotes inclusive practices throughout the campus community and are committed to the provision of an equitable learning environment that will enable students become independent

learners and highly skilled graduates. The university also have a team of qualified and experienced counsellors, psychologists and psychotherapists and information about the Counselling Service is available at http://www.nuigalway.ie/counsellors/.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

https://nuigalway.blackboard.com/

http://www.nuigalway.ie/information-solutions-services/

http://www.nuigalway.ie/information-solutions-services/

https://servicedesk.nuigalway.ie/helpdesk/WebObjects/Helpdesk

http://www.nuigalway.ie/student_services

http://www.nuigalway.ie/disability

http://www.nuigalway.ie/counsellors

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Year One - Semester One Timetable

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NOTES

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Further information on the Bachelor of Science (Applied Social Sciences) is available at www.ssrc.ie/bass

http://www.ssrc.ie/bass

bachelor of science (applied social sciences) first year ...ssrc.ie/bass/docs/gy123 - first year...

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