Sex and Gender

This unit introduces students to the discipline of Gender Studies. Gender Studies is an independent scholarly discipline that intersects with other humanities and sociology disciplines, such as, anthropology, literary studies, cultural studies, film studies, politics, history, psychology and philosophy. Students will consider the complex notions of sex and gender, sexualities and gendered subjectivities. Gender is introduced as a socially constructed category and the ways in which this construction impacts upon our everyday lives. This unit examines the complex array of processes at work, which produce specific types of gendered subjects. The unit challenges gender binaries, gender stereotypes and questions conventional beliefs about sex and gender.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Analyse and apply a gender lens and theories to a variety of contexts;
2. Critically examine social and cultural influences in the construction of gender, gendered subjectivities, and understandings of sexuality;
3. Apply and utilise research methods in a research setting relevant to developing a gendered awareness;
4. Assess and apply contemporary gender debates and approaches in a variety of contexts; and
5. Decode key processes informing gendered hierarchies and gender organisation.