Bachelor of Science (Applied Social Sciences) First Year Student Handbook Academic Year 2020 2021 - Programme Code: GY123
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Bachelor of Science
(Applied Social Sciences)
First Year Student
Handbook Academic Year
2020 - 2021
___________________________________________________________
Programme Code: GY123
___________________________________________________________
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
1|Page
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).
3|Page
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: mike.hynes@nuigalway.ie
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
National University of Ireland Galway
Email address: siubhan.comer@nuigalway.ie
Phone: TBC
Office Hours: Wednesday 3pm to 4pm (or by appointment)
Programme Director (On Sabbatical)
Prof Frances Fahy
Discipline of Geography
Arts Science Concourse
National University of Ireland Galway
Email address: N/A
Phone: N/A
Office Hours: N/A.
4|Page
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 gary.goggins@nuigalway.ie
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.
5|Page
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.
6|Page
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 Ms Jacqueline Murphy
Coordinators 2nd Floor, Áras Moyola
jacqueline.murphy@nuigalway.ie
Dr Judith O’Connell
Room 319, 2nd Floor, Áras Moyola
judith.oconnell@nuigalway.ie
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
7|Page
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.
Intended Learning Outcomes
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.
Key Reading Material
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.
8|Page
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 Ms Jacqueline Murphy
Coordinators 2nd Floor, Áras Moyola
jacqueline.murphy@nuigalway.ie
Dr Judith O’Connell
Room 319, 2nd Floor, Áras Moyola
judith.oconnell@nuigalway.ie
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
9|Pagefactual 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.
Intended Learning Outcomes
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.
Key Reading Material
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.
10 | P a g eSP1118/1119 - 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
11 | P a g erelation 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.
Intended Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module students will be able to:
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).
Key Reading Material
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.
12 | P a g eTI150 - 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 Dr John McDonagh
Department of Geography
Room 122, Arts/Science Concourse
Email 1BAGeography@nuigalway.ie
Phone 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
13 | P a g e Geographies of Advanced Economics
Development Geographies.
Intended Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module students will be able to:
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
70 hours
Learning (Non-contact):
Total workload: 100 hours.
Key Reading Material
Required readings for this module will be posted on Blackboard.
14 | P a g eTI151 - 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 Dr John McDonagh
Department of Geography
Room 122, Arts/Science Concourse
Email 1BAGeography@nuigalway.ie
Phone 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.
15 | P a g eMajor Themes Covered in the Module
The Biosphere: Biography – species distribution and ecosystems
The atmosphere: Weather and Climate
The Hydrosphere: Rivers
The Geosphere: Coasts.
Intended Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module students will be able to:
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
The module will be assessed by
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).
Key Reading Material
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.
16 | P a g eTI1100 - 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,
Room 110, Arts/Science Concourse
E-mail GiP@nuigalway.ie
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
17 | P a g e Provide students with basic skills for mapping, data representation and
Geographical Information System (GIS).
Intended Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module students will be able to:
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.
18 | P a g eEC1110 - 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
E-mail stephen.mcnena@nuigalway.ie
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.
Intended Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module students will be able to:
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.
19 | P a g eModule Assessment
The module will be assessed by
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
Key Reading Material
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].
20 | P a g eBSS1100 - 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
Room 323, 2nd Floor, Áras Moyola
E-mail mike.hynes@nuigalway.ie
Phone Ext. 5104
Office Hours Tuesday 3pm to 4pm
Wednesday 3pm to 4pm.
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.
21 | P a g eModule 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.
Intended Learning Outcomes
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
The module will be assessed by
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.
Key Reading Material
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.
22 | P a g eBSS 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
Room 323, 2nd Floor, Áras Moyola
E-mail mike.hynes@nuigalway.ie
Phone Ext. 5104
Office Hours Tuesday 3pm to 4pm
Wednesday 3pm to 4pm.
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.
23 | P a g eModule 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.
Intended Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module students will be able to:
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
The module will be assessed by
End-of-semester essay (25%)
Continuous assessment (75%).
Key Reading Material
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.
24 | P a g eFrequently 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 writingcentre@nuigalway.ie).
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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.
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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.
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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/.
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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.
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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
catherine.mccurry@nuigalway.ie).
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25 | P a g eWhat 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.
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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/.
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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.
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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/.
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26 | P a g eYear One - Semester One Timetable 28 | Page
NOTES
28 | P a g eFurther information on the Bachelor of Science (Applied Social Sciences) is available at www.ssrc.ie/bass
29 | P a g eYou can also read
