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Critical Social Policy (SOCI90004)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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April
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This subject gives students a comprehensive understanding of how to critically unpack and analyse social issues and social policies. It provides an introduction to contemporary social theories and perspectives such as governmentality theory, critical race theory, feminist approaches, decolonial perspectives, and comparative welfare state theory as these are applied as critical lenses to better understand policymaking. Moving through a series of policy areas, the subject allows students to develop a thorough understanding of how these issues are framed, debated, and resolved in Australia and internationally. The subject also gives students conceptual tools based on current case studies of decision making for NGO sector and governmental organisations. 

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject students should:

  • Demonstrate an ability to critically analyse social policies
  • Demonstrate an understanding of how contemporary social theories can inform critical, social analysis
  • Demonstrate an ability to critically consider the ways social policy constructs 'social problems' or frames certain issues as demanding intervention.

Generic skills

  • Research skills, through the competent use of library and other information sources, and the definition of areas of inquiry and methods of research
  • An understanding of the social, ethical and cultural contexts of research
  • Critical thinking and analysis skills, through recommended reading, essay writing, and seminar discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument
  • Skills in written and oral communication, time management and planning, and group work, through completion of course requirements
  • The capacity to think in theoretical terms, through class requirements and engagement with theories and methods of the social sciences
  • The capacity to think creatively, through course work and course discussion, and by critical analysis of competing arguments.

Last updated: 8 November 2024