How far are technological changes responsible for developments in contemporary communities, and what have the consequences been?

Module Title:

Community and change

Module Learning Outcomes

Develop a broad understanding of various definitions of communities within a range of contexts

Explain current developments in UK communities and the processes which appear to be reshaping them

Outline the role of social capital in developing community wellbeing

Examine issues of social and cultural diversity within the context of community cohesion and provision of services

Required task

You are required to write an essay of 2,000 words

Title of essay: How far are technological changes responsible for developments in contemporary communities, and what have the consequences been?

Guidance notes and considerations

Develop a broad understanding of various definitions of communities within a historical, geographical, social, cultural and religious context

• Explain how the definition and concept of community changes within the context it is referred to and how there are many competing definitions.

Explain current developments in UK communities and the processes which appear to be reshaping it

• Using relevant recent research studies and statistical data explain how UK communities are changing and underlying reasons for such changes; these could be historical, technological, social or cultural. Consider how these changes are creating opportunities and problems within communities

Examine issues of social and cultural diversity within the context of community cohesion and provision of services

• Examine how communities are changing and developing, socially and culturally, and the impact this has social inclusion and cohesion.  Consider how this impacts on community services in positive and negative ways, and the effect this has on health and well being

Outline the role of social capital in developing community well being

• Referring to theoretical frameworks (Bourdieu, Coleman and/or Putnam) outline what is social capital and how they explain it can play a role in promoting community well-being