Sociology of WorkLaajuus (5 cr)

Objective

After completion of the course the student is able to
- specify different sociological debates about work
- explore sociologically how differences such as gender, ethnicity, competence and class are structured in and by work
- use theoretical approaches in analyzing societal meanings of work.

Content

This course focuses on societal functions, relations and structures from the perspective of work-studies. Work itself is a societal order which includes and also shapes the possibilities of participation. During the course the student will get acquainted with different sociological debates about work, working life and changes in work.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Fail: Performance is highly deficient or erroneous. The work may be based on serious misunderstandings.

Sufficient and satisfactory (1-2): Performance is lacking in scope, superficial, or corresponds poorly to the assignment. The author merely lists things out of context or addresses them one-sidedly. The work may contain errors or obscurities.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

Good and very good (3-4): Performance corresponds to the assignment, manifesting comprehension and a skill to analyse and justify. The author has addressed the issue comprehensively. The work may contain some deficiencies.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

Excellent (5): Performance delineates an extensive whole and the author can apply knowledge in a multifaceted way or place it in various contexts. The work manifests independency and insight, and it is a flawless entity that involves justified thinking or critical contemplation. The work is well written and implemented.

Materials

Chris Warhurst, Irena Grugulis & Ewart Keep (eds) (2004) The Skills That Matter. Critical Perspective on Work and Organisations.
Linda WcDowell (2009) Working Bodies: Interactive Service Employment and Workplace Identities.