LEIS2210

Leisure, Society and Contemporary Culture

Faculty of Business and Law Newcastle Business School

10 Units 2000 Level Course

Not available in 2014

Previously offered in 2006, 2005, 2004

Takes a sociological approach to contemporary culture as well as drawing on the interdisciplinary field of cultural studies. Building on the introductory theoretical knowledge acquired in first year, this course is designed to develop in students a more detailed critical understanding of the relationship between society, popular culture, leisure and tourism. Emphasis in this course will be placed on student presentations, independent research, and tutorial discussions based on readings and in-depth analysis of various popular cultural forms.

Objectives

On successful completion of this course it is expected that students will:

1. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the relationship between leisure, tourism, popular culture and Australian society;
2. Develop a knowledge of contemporary popular cultural forms;
3. Critically interpret dominant myths and messages about social identity contained in a variety of popular cultural forms;
4. Critically engage with and assess contrasting theoretical viewpoints on the role of popular culture in society.
5. Introduce students to the basic principles of learner-centred learning.

Content

The course will provide a broad understanding of the sociology of culture and cultural studies. It will consider complex issues of ideology, power and control through an exploration of specific popular culture forms.
This course will cover the following broad areas:
1. Introduction to popular culture.
2. Theories, texts and contexts.
3. Hidden Messages / reading cultural texts.
4. Tourism semiotics and the gaze.
5. Tourism and authenticity.
6. Cultural tourism.
7. Cultural politics and the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
8. The Culture of Fandom.
9. Reading Mills and Boon.
10.National icons in popular culture.
11.Sport and the Australian dream.
12.Gender sport and the media.

Replacing Course(s)

Not applicable

Transition

Not applicable.

Industrial Experience

Assumed Knowledge

LEIS1110 or CULT1050 or SOCA1010

Modes of Delivery

Internal Mode

Teaching Methods

Lecture
Integrated Learning
Tutorial

Assessment Items

Examination: Class	(20%) This examination will require students to demonstrate an understanding of the key issues and concepts examined in the course.
Essays / Written Assignments	(35%) This essay will require students to demonstrate their understanding of relevant theoretical perspectives and their ability to apply the chosen theory(ies) to a particular popular cultural form.
Group/tutorial participation and contribution	(10%) This component will take account of the student?s ongoing contribution to tutorial discussions. It will assess their ability to raise questions and to engage with the courses subject matter.
Journal	(35%) Tutorial Portfolio This item will require students to keep a portfolio of all the tutorial work undertaken in the course, including weekly tutorial exercises, readings, and other relevant material. It will assess their ability to work independently, engagement with the subject matter, ability to reflect on issues raised each week and to make links between theory and practice.

Contact Hours