Summary of content

As the title suggests, this module has two broad aims: (i) to introduce GSBS students to the principles, ideas and value of the social sciences and (ii) to demonstrate how social science perspectives are fundamental to understanding in business and professional studies.

This new module provides all (non BA Social Sciences) first year GSBS students with an introductory multidisciplinary analysis of the challenges facing contemporary societies, and helps them to think creatively about responses to these. This module will capitalise on the combined strengths of the Department of Social Sciences, Media and Journalism to offer a new learning experience that contributes to one of the core aims of the School - to add social and economic value through both multi- and inter- disciplinary teaching which encompasses expertise from the across the School. The ultimate outcome (of a GSBS degree, to which this module would contribute) is to produce graduates who can act as responsible citizens and managers with a broad and deep understanding of the complexity of contemporary societal challenges.

The module will start to develop attributes which all GSBS graduates should possess, including an international perspective and awareness of global issues the ability to think holistically (e.g. to consider business and management issues from a range of perspectives) being digitally aware the ability to work collaboratively the ability to manage workload effectively (time management skills) and the capacity to think independently with a critical and questioning perspective.

The module is structured into four blocks, providing an understanding of the value of a social science perspective (blocks A and D) and an opportunity to apply social science to address key issues facing business and society at the local (block B) and global scales (block C).
(i) Social Science: an introduction
(ii) Understanding Glasgow (local social science)
(iii) Global Social Science
(iv) Key Social Science Skills

Although providing a comprehensive introduction to the value of the social sciences, the opportunity will be taken throughout to demonstrate the importance of this knowledge to practice and understanding in the professions and business studies.

Module structure

Assessment methods