Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 2 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

The main aim of this unit is to introduce the student to the study of theoretical criminology. The study of criminology is essentially multi-disciplinary and this is reflected in the diversity of theoretical approaches. Theory is typically offered as distinct from methods of research, however, together they provide the foundation for policy and practice. The unit provides an analytical framework in order to critically assess the epistemological claims and justifications found in criminological theory.
General explanations and theories of crime are explored beginning with the traditional theoretical approaches of Classicism, Positivism and Marxism. Also 'modern' and 'post-modern' developments such as actuarial justice, rational choice, feminist theories and environmental criminology will be covered. The main object is to introduce students to some of the major theories of crime . The course stresses the overlap between theory and practice and the proposition that there is nothing more practical than a good theory? (cf. Kant).

Aims

This unit examines the major theories of crime and criminality developed over the past 200 years and provides a general introduction to the field of criminology. The unit's contents are broadly collated under three main themes: 1) Introductory themes: including defining the criminological enterprise, defining crime, 2) over viewing the history of criminological thought, and 3) Understanding the diversity among theories of crime and criminal behaviour.

Objectives

Upon completion of this unit you will be able to:
1. Have a comprehensive understanding of the diverse theories of crime (for example, classicism, positivism, , labelling subcultural, social control, counter-colony feminist and post structuralist theories of crime and deviance consistent with the graduate attributes of critical thinking and problem solving;
3. Critically apply an analytic framework to assess the merits of different criminological theories in the context of specific crimes, or policy problems and demonstrate the graduate attribute of critical thinking;
4. Develop the capacity to critically re-view and assess common accounts of criminal behaviour and demonstrate the graduate attribute of critical awareness and;
5. Competently argue a logical theoretical position in respect to a practical example (a crime case or cases, a crime problem or practice) and demonstrate the graduate attribute of oral and/or written communication.

Content

The content in this unit covers a range of theories crime developed over the last two centuries, including classicism, positivism, sociological structuralism, deviance theory, critical criminology, feminist, post-structuralist and counter colonial criminological theories.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

This unit adopts a blended approach to enable learning using teaching in a lectoral format (which both internal and external students can simultaneously participate) accompanied by structured discussion forums, The main approach adopted in this unit is that of student centred learning which, in effect, means that you are required to take primary responsibility for your own learning under the general guidance and assistance of the unit teaching staff. A program of week-by-week readings forms the basis of the unit. In order to further facilitate learning, a statement of objectives, key terms, commentary, exercises and questions accompaniesthe weekly learning materials.

Assessment

The assessment process in this unit is designed to be both formative (provide you with feedback on your progress in the unit) and summative (grade your progress in the unit and provide your final mark). There are two forms of assessment: An Essay and an ExaminationStudents will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:

• Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation


• Formal: in writing, e.g. criteria sheets, written commentary


• Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation


• Indirect: to the whole class

Assessment name: Essay
Description: Students are to submit an Essay of approx 2,500-3000 words providing a critical overview of at least two theories of crime.
Relates to objectives: All
Weight: 50%
Internal or external: Both
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Week 10

Assessment name: Examination (written)
Description: An examination will be scheduled during the central exam period at the end of semester.
Relates to objectives: All
Weight: 50%
Internal or external: Both
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Exam Period

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Text
Hayward, K. Maruna, S. Monney, J. (eds) (2010) Fifty Key Thinkers in Criminology, Routledge, London and New York.
Additional Resource Materials will be available through Blackboard.

Risk assessment statement

There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 21-Mar-2013