Module Information

Module Identifier
MMM4720
Module Title
Culture, Consumption and Society
Academic Year
2015/2016
Co-ordinator
Dr Jan Breitsohl
Semester
Semester 2
Pre-Requisite
MMM4320
Other Staff
 

Course Delivery

Delivery Type Delivery length / details
Lecture 11 x 4 Hour Lectures
 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Individual Research Project  65%
Semester Exam Individual Viva Examination  35%
Supplementary Assessment Repeat failed elements or equivalent  65%
Supplementary Exam Repeat failed elements or equivalent  35%

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of the historical emergence of consumerism.

Describe and discuss a range of theoretical perspectives on consumption.

Critically evaluate a range of theoretical perspectives on consumption.

Explain and explore a range of consumption practices through the theories considered in the module.

Undertake and write-up a piece of primary research.

Communicate the findings of a piece of primary research by drawing on the theories considered in the module.

Content

Preamble: Introduction to consumerism theories

Part 1: Psychological perspectives on consumerism

  • Elaboration Likelihood Models
  • Theories of planned behaviour
  • Cognitive dissonance theories
Part 2: Social perspectives on consumerism

  • Attribution theories
  • Social comparison theories
  • Social cognitive theories
Part 3: Cultural perspectives on consumerism

  • Uses and gratification theories
  • Face negotiation theories
Part 4: Students? perspective on consumerism

  • Student presentations

Aims

Consumerism now pervades every aspect of modern life. We live in a consumer society and increasingly come to define ourselves, and those around us, by what we possess. This module seeks to introduce a range of theoretical perspectives that help to understand consumerism and how it manifests itself within a range of social contexts.

Brief description

This module aims to introduce students to a range of sociological perspectives that seek to explore the relations between culture, consumption and society. In doing so we look at how consumerism has come to pervade so many aspects of our lives and how it influences both our sense of self and also the way we interact with others. Students will be encouraged to think critically about their own consuming habits and how they have influenced their sense of identity.

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Application of Number
Communication 1. Read in different contexts and for different purposes; 2. Speak in different contexts and for different purposes (inc. presentation and discussion).
Improving own Learning and Performance
Information Technology 1. Use a range of commonly used software packages; 2. Present information and data; 3. Use e-mail/internet appropriately and effectively.
Personal Development and Career planning
Problem solving
Research skills 1. Plan and carry out research; 2. Produce academically appropriate reports.
Subject Specific Skills Students will develop a greater, and more critical, appreciation of the role and power of consumption, in contemporary society.
Team work 1. Contribute effectively to the planning of group activities; 2. Play an active part in group activities.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 7