Identity and Interaction (Aut) (L4066A)
Identity and Interaction
Module L4066A
Module details for 2024/25.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 6
Module Outline
This is a module about interpretivist social theory, which explores ideas of selfhood, social identity and social interaction at the micro level of analysis. The theoretical emphasis is on Symbolic Interactionism (SI) and Goffman’s dramaturgy, which are used to examine how social identities are formed (created, performed, [re]presented, controlled, negotiated, shaped and transformed) through processes of interaction, particularly face-to-face encounters, and the meanings that actors give to these experiences. SI is primarily concerned with documenting the minutiae of interaction, and we ask lots of questions about how rather than why these social processes unfold. We will also examine empirical applications of these theoretical models, with plenty of examples from published studies. Finally, the module aims to enable students to reflect upon their own social identity (or identities) and make sense of their experiences of social interaction in everyday life.  
Module learning outcomes
Understand the key principles and concepts of the theoretical perspectives of Symbolic Interactionism and Goffman’s dramaturgy.     
Demonstrate an in-depth, analytical and critically engaged knowledge of these theoretical models, with reference to published studies.   
Apply the theories of Symbolic Interactionism and/or Goffman’s dramaturgy to a substantive topic or empirical example
Critically evaluate the contributions made by Symbolic Interactionism and/or Goffman’s dramaturgical theory to the study of self-identity and interaction.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Essay (4000 words) | Semester 1 Assessment Week 1 Thu 16:00 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Workshop | 2 hours | 11111011111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof Susie Scott
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/171734
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.