southampton

Module overview

This module introduces you to the study of Gerontology as a global and an interdisciplinary subject. You will be familiarised with the main theoretical perspectives and approaches to the study of ageing and the life course. You will examine the causes and consequences of ageing at the level of individuals and populations in different country contexts. This involves investigating the social, physical and mental changes humans undergo as they age, as well as the impact of growing proportions of older people on social institutions, labour markets, welfare systems and families. The module combines insights from Social Policy, Demography, Sociology, Biology, Psychology and Economics.

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

The module involves lectures and guest lectures from different disciplines. Learning activities include lectures, online tutorials and independent study. Students are expected to carry out some reading in advance of each session, in order to be able to participate in discussions.

Module communication: Students are welcome to contact module convenors and lecturers by email.

Study time
Type	Hours
Teaching	18
Independent Study	132
Total study time	150

Resources & Reading list

Textbooks

Carney, G.M. and Nash, P. (2020). Critical Questions for Ageing Societies. Bristol: Policy Press.

Nico, M. and Pollock, G. (2022). The Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Inequalities and the Life Course. London: Routledge.

Victor, C. (2005). The Social Context of Ageing. London: Routledge.

Vincent, J.A., Phillipson, C. and Downs, M. (2006). The Futures of Old Age. London: Sage.

Dannefer, D. and Philipson, C. (eds) (2013). The SAGE Handbook of Social Gerontology. London: Sage.

de Medeiros, Kate (2017). The Short Guide to Aging and Gerontology. Bristol: Policy Press.

Assessment

Assessment strategy

Coursework Portfolio (max. 3,000 words)

The coursework portfolio consists of four parts, and all four parts contribute to the final word count of the portfolio, which is 3,000 words.

In the first part, students submit summaries of two prearranged articles on a provided topic.

In the second part, students must locate and submit two additional articles on a given topic themselves, utilising the library service.

The third part of the portfolio comprises two summaries of chosen papers and a justification of why each article meets the criteria for the provided topic.

The final part of the portfolio includes a critical review of all four articles.

Parts 1 to 3 of the portfolio should not exceed 1,500 words each, while Part 4 should also be limited to 1,500 words. Therefore, the assignment should have a maximum length of 3,000 words in total.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Coursework portfolio	100%

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Literature review	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External

Global Perspectives in Gerontology (DL)