SPOL30220 Social Policy, Social Justice and the Environment

Academic Year 2020/2021

This module examines the economic, social and environmental challenges facing our society. Environmental issues include those associated with climate change but also other environmental problems (e.g. air and water pollution, flooding and drought, storm damage, biodiversity loss). Questions of environmental justice are explored. This includes examining the extent to which environmental costs and burdens are experienced by different groups. The module is particularly concerned with examining and addressing the needs of the most vulnerable groups in society, such as those on low incomes, those with a disability, certain ethnic minorities, young people and older people. The module explores a range of responses to social and environmental 'risks'. Much of the module focuses on developing more sustainable communities through a) housing, planning and land use; b) transport; c) employment; d) health; and e) education. The assignment for the module enables students to learn more about their own community and its sustainability by writing a profile of the area.. NB: THIS MODULE MAY ONLY BE AVAILABLE EVERY SECOND YEAR.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module students should be able to: critically analyse the key concepts including sustainable communities; critique various responses to climate change and other environmental responses; assess the extent to which principles of sustainable development are reflected in Irish social policies and practices; demonstrate an understanding of different models of sustainable communities; and demonstrate skills in community profiling.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

22
Specified Learning Activities

40
Autonomous Student Learning

38
Total

100
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Lectures; active/task based learning. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Group Project: end of semester assignment Week 12 n/a Graded No

70
Class Test: There will be one mid-semester exam which will take place during class time on Tuesday, February 23rd. All students are expected to sit the exam during this time period. Week 6 n/a Alternative linear conversion grade scale 40% No

30

Carry forward of passed components
No
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Autumn No
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.