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Course Overview
Discover the convenience of Open Learning College’s Distance Learning A-Level Courses, designed to accommodate students worldwide with the flexibility to study from the comfort of home. These comprehensive two-year programs provide access to extensive online course materials and personalised tutor guidance through a virtual learning platform. Upon completion of examinations, students receive certificates endorsed by reputable Awarding Bodies such as Edexcel, AQA, or OCR.
Whether you’re a newcomer to academia or seeking to enhance your qualifications for university admission, our adaptable A-Level courses are tailored to suit your individual needs. Study at your own pace, on your own schedule, and from any location that suits you.
Our comprehensive two-year A-Level Courses cover both the AS and A2 components, requiring students to sit exams as private candidates at approved examination centres. Successful completion of all required exams within a single assessment period ensures eligibility for the full A-Level qualification.
The full A level course in Sociology offers students a profound exploration of human societies and the complex dynamics that shape our beliefs, behaviours, and daily interactions. Through a series of three written exam papers, students delve into the intricate fabric of society, examining its structures, institutions, and cultural norms. Unlike previous iterations, the Advanced Level award does not include associated coursework, emphasizing a focus on comprehensive understanding and application of sociological concepts within the examination setting.
At its core, Sociology aims to provide students with enduring insights into the construction of human societies and their profound influence on individual lives. By fostering a critical understanding of society, the course equips students with the analytical tools to identify and explain social issues and phenomena. Furthermore, students develop essential skills in coherent expression, critical evaluation of information, and engagement with scientific inquiry, preparing them to navigate and contribute to the increasingly complex social landscape.
The dynamic nature of modern sociology reflects the ever-evolving nature of society itself, with new research and studies continuously challenging and refining existing theories. Through the study of sociology, students gain a nuanced understanding of societal processes, from interpersonal relationships to institutional structures, and from childhood to adulthood. By cultivating curiosity and analytical skills, students learn to interrogate the underlying mechanisms driving social phenomena and to critically assess potential solutions to address societal challenges.
Moreover, the A-Level Sociology course fosters the development of critical and reflective thinking while promoting respect for social diversity. By exploring sociological theories, perspectives, and research methods, students gain insight into the complexities of social life and the interconnectedness of individual experiences with broader social structures. The course encourages students to engage with sociological debates and to appreciate the significance of social structures and actions in shaping the contemporary world.
While prior study of sociology is not a prerequisite for the course, students with a background in GCSE Sociology may find a smooth transition to the A level curriculum. Additionally, proficiency in English and Mathematics at the A-C GCSE level is desirable, although no formal qualifications are required. Students are encouraged to approach the course with an open mind and a willingness to engage critically with diverse sociological perspectives, preparing them for academic success and fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of human society.
Course Key Topics
the A-Level Sociology course is divided into 9 modules.
Module 1: Introduction to Sociology and Education
Topics covered include:
- Introduction to sociology.
- Key introductory ideas.
- Education, socialisation and citizenship.
- Processes and relationships in education.
- Theoretical perspectives on education.
- Differential achievement.
- Education policies.
- Researching education
Module 2: Research Methods and Theory in Context
Topics covered include:
- Sociological research methods.
- Topic selection.
- Practical issues.
- Hypotheses.
- Types of data.
- Evaluating research.
- Bias and ethics.
- Gathering data.
- Social survey.
- Participant observation.
- Experiments.
- Official statistics.
- Other types of data.
Module 3: Culture and Identity (Exam Option 1)
Topics covered include:
- Different cultural perspectives.
- Types of identity.
- The socialisation process.
- Agencies of social control.
- Perspectives on identity.
- Labelling.
- Theoretical summary of identity.
- Leisure, consumption and identity.
- Theoretical summary of identity.
Module 4: Families and Households (Exam Option 1)
Topics covered include:
- Definitions of family and households.
- Perspectives on the family.
- Types of family structure.
- Ethnic difference in family types.
- Regional variations.
- Families of choice.
- Decline in death and infant mortality rates and the ageing population.
- Emigration and immigration.
- Marriage, divorce and cohabitation.
- Lone parents.
- Historical changes in childhood and childhood as a social construct.
- Historical changes in childhood.
- Inequalities in domestic labour.
- Power distribution and authority between couples.
- Cross cultural views.
- Perspectives on family and social policy.
Module 5: Health (exam option 1)
Topics covered include:
- Social construction of the body and health, illness, and disease.
- Disability.
- Models of health.
- The role of medicine and health professionals.
- Historical improvements.
- Medicine and social control.
- Contemporary changes in health and health care.
- Inequalities in health.
- Perspectives on mental illness.
- Researching health.
Module 6: Work, Poverty and Welfare (Exam Option 1)
Topics covered include:
- Defining poverty wealth and income.
- Measurements of poverty, wealth and income.
- Distribution of resources.
- Theories of poverty.
- Theoretical approaches to welfare.
- Public and private welfare provision.
- Voluntary and informal provision.
- Issues and problems.
- Responses to poverty.
Module 7: Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods (Compulsory)
Topics covered include:
- Crime, social order and control.
- Social distribution of crime.
- Globalisation and crime.
- Crime control, prevention and punishment, victims and the criminal justice system.
Module 8: The Media (Exam Option 2)
Topics covered include:
- The new media.
- Ownership and control of the media.
- The media and globalisation and popular culture.
- Media representations.
- Media and audiences.
Module 9: Stratification and Differentiation (Exam Option 2)
Topics covered include:
- Stratification and differentiation by social class, gender, ethnicity and age.
- Dimensions of inequality.
- Defining and measuring social class.
- Structures of inequality: change and its effects.
- Social mobility.
(Please click on the curriculum tab above to see a detailed view of each module)
Course Content
A-Level Sociology – FREE Starter Pack
How to…. (a series of explainer videos)
Module 1 – Introduction to Sociology and Education
Module 2 – Research Methods and Theory in Context
Module 3 – Culture and Identity (Exam Option 1)
Module 4 – Families and Households (Exam Option 1)
Module 5 – Health (exam option 1)
Module 6 – Work, Poverty and Welfare (Exam Option 1)
Module 7 – Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods (Compulsory)
Module 8 – The Media (Exam Option 2)
Module 9 – Stratification and Differentiation (Exam Option 2)
Course Resources
Final Exam
College Announcements
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🌟 Why Choose Our A Level Sociology Course
Presented by Open Learning College, our A Level Sociology course offers a comprehensive examination of social structures, institutions, and processes. Explore key sociological concepts such as socialization, culture, inequality, and social change. Engage with thought-provoking discussions and case studies that shed light on contemporary social issues.
💡 What Makes Our Course Stand Out
In-depth Curriculum: Dive deep into sociological theories and perspectives, and develop critical thinking skills to analyse social phenomena from various perspectives.
Interactive Learning: Participate in group discussions, research projects, and interactive activities that foster a deeper understanding of sociological concepts.
Expert Support: Receive guidance and feedback from experienced tutors who are passionate about helping you succeed in your sociology studies.
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Ethan Patel