The Social Scientist Issue 2

Transcript

1. 1 It is SO exciting to be publishing our second newsletter to tell you all about our won- derful Social Science Community. Our first newsletter received a fantastic amount of positive feedback from staff and students across the University and we hope this one has the same impact! We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together. There is so much going on in our community, it fills us with pride to be able to share a little bit of it with you. Welcome to our Second Social Science Community Newsletter! Meet our New Student-Led Equality and Diversity Committee! Trimester B 2019/20 Issue 2 The Social Scientist The Social Science Community Newsletter; a Glasgow Caledonian University student and staff collaboration for the Common Good. And … a Welcome from Rachel Russell, our Head of Department. Once again I would like to thank Katy and the student engagement team for putting this together. It is a great achievement and allows us to learn more about all our combined efforts in support of Social Sciences at GCU. Students and staff at GCU Glasgow will have already noticed a big change for Trimester B with our new look 5th floor. Thanks to Dr Ruth Lightbody for driving this and ensuring we can showcase student and staff work and reflect our Social Science community. This Trimester we are preparing for two big events and student participation is crucial to both. The first is our Enhancement Led Internal Subject Review (ELISR) on June 10th 2020 and the second is the Review of the BA (Hons) Social Sciences on 4th November 2020.ELISR* is where we review our Department and critically evaluate our strengths and weaknesses. We cannot do this without student involvement and we will be contacting all students in the Department to contribute in our evaluation. BA (Hons) Social Sciences Review** is where we review the BA (Hons) Social Science programme and ask for approval to continue. We look at the whole programme, the curriculum for each discipline, and think about where we need to make any changes to prepare us for the future. Current Social Science students need to have a say in this as they are best placed to consider their current programme, and will need to be consulted about any changes to the current curriculum. Look out for communications about how you can be involved in shaping our Department and the BA (Hons) Social Science and please do not hesitate to respond. I can be contacted about any suggestions, issues or concerns on: 0141 331 8594 or by emailing me on R.Russell@gcu.ac.uk. I look forward to hearing from you. Rachel Russell, Head of Department of Social Sciences. Glasgow Caledonian University is well known for it’s commitment to championing equality and di- versity. Our Social Science Com- munity have always been equally committed to ensuring our pro- gramme and modules are as accessible as possible to all our students … and now we have the Committee to prove it! This picture shows just a few of the members of the team who are volunteering their time, energy and inspira- tional ideas to make sure we are the best we can be at making our students feel welcome, safe and empowered in their student experience. Our biggest challenge so far, has been ending meetings on time. Everyone is so passion- ate about the issues they champion! On page 2, you can read about one stu- dent’s experience of being part of this dynamic committee ... * https://www.gcu.ac.uk/media/gcalwebv2/theuniversity/aqd/AQPP_4_ELISR.pdf ** https://www.gcu.ac.uk/media/gcalwebv2/theuniversity/aqd/AQPP_7_Programme_Review.pdf Inside this issue: This Trimester in History! 2 Student Focus — Equality and Diversity 2 Student Perspective—Module Choices 3 Student Activism for the Com- mon Good—Volunteering 3 Introducing … 4 Where to with Social Sciences? 4 Study Focus –Learning and Development Centre Tips! 4
2. 2 Our History Team, pictured below, highlight some key moments in history that happened in previous ‘Trimester B periods’! The signifi- cance of many of these historical moments are discussed during their fascinating history modules. From left to right; Professor Oonagh Walsh, Dr. Ben Shepherd, Dr. Fiona Skillen, Dr. Janet Greenlees. February  2nd Feb, 1990. President De Klerk of South Africa lifts the 30- year ban on leading anti- apartheid group the African Na- tional Congress ( ANC ). He also stated the jailed ANC leader Nel- son Mandela would be released.  2nd Feb, 1922. James Joyce's Ulysses is published in Paris - it's also his 40th birthday.  8th Feb, 1952. Queen Elizabeth the Second Becomes Queen. March  2nd March, 1965. Operation Rolling Thunder begins Vietnam.  7th March 1876. Alexander Gra- ham Bell receives a patent for his revolutionary new invention the telephone.  9th March 1959 Barbie doll makes debut at the American Toy Fair in New York. This Tri-mester in History! Student Focus; Shona Deans tells us why being part of the Equality and Diversity Committee is so Important to her. Page 2 The Social Scientist The Social Scientist March cont...  7th-25th March, 1965. African- American civil rights campaigners march across Alabama from Selma to Montgomery for the right to vote April  4th April, 1968. Martin Luther King Jr. Murdered  4th April 1973 New York's World Trade Center Completed  6th April 1896 Modern Olympics Games Reborn May  3rd May, 1979. Margaret Thatcher Becomes British Prime Minister.  7th May, 1956. British Health Min- ister RH Turton, rejects calls for a government campaign against smoking, saying no ill-effects have actually been proven and the link between smoking and lung cancer has not been established. Have you considered going on exchange in third year for a Trimester or longer? You have great options in the European Union such as the beautiful Dutch city of Rotterdam (always a popular choice) or to travel to North America. New York and California are also possibilities. Or maybe you would like to suggest your own destination? You may of course be put off by the costs involved. However, for some exchange programmes you will be paid a stipend and for others there is possible travel expense funding available too. The idea of studying abroad can be quite daunting but there is plenty of support. You have begun one journey in your academic career. Why not try another one too? You have nothing to lose and a world to see. Interested? Then enrol with Exchange and Study Abroad through Communities on GCU Learn or check out Exchange on the GCU homepage. Alternatively email William.mcdougall2@gcu.ac.uk the BA Social Science Exchange Co-ordinator and begin your journey today… As a student with a hidden disability, I have suffered from unfair treatment by society. Unfortunately, so have many other individuals, like me, who have a range of diverse characteristics. For that reason, a team of like-minded lecturers and students in GCU’s Social Science department have established the ‘Equality and Diversity’ Sub-Committee to the Programme Board. This group is about treating people with dignity and respect by tackling inequality and breaking down barriers. It is exceptionally important to have an equality and diversity committee to make sure everyone has equal opportunities to fulfil their potential during their degree. Within the committee we have members from other areas of the University such as the Disability Service, the Students Association, the Learning and Development Centre and Adrian Lui - who is the Equality and Diversi- ty lead for the university. Because of this we have the potential to have our voices heard at a University level as well as on our own degree programme. Through pro- moting equality and diversity within the university, it will help counteract discrimi- nation as well as strengthen and harmonise the student body. Personally, I think it is wonderful that the Social Science department has taken such a step to bring awareness to the importance of embracing all of the differences which make us such a vibrant community. The meetings are very interesting and fun to attend. It is a safe and comfortable space for students and faculty members to voice their opin- ions about issues within the University. The training day, led by Adrian Lui, was a lot of fun as well as it opened my mind to the diverse nature of society as well as equipping me with better tools to make eve- ryone feel included (we had snacks too). I feel as though I am a part of something meaningful and great!
3. 3 Student Perspective; Making Module Choices I have volunteered in some capacity with the Students’ Association since I started at GCU in my first year. I first became involved in vol- unteering activities when I met welcoming students’ at Freshers Fayre when I started in September 2016. I started as a contributor for our Student Magazine The EDIT, more so for the fashion section, progressing finally to becoming Editor in Chief in my third year. It’s a role I have continued with through my fourth and final year. I have met so many friends for life and it has helped me grow into the out- going bubbly person that I am right now. It also allowed me to want to get involved with other volunteering opportunities that were open to me. In my second year I was class rep for my year and I am again this year, I wanted to go for this role as I wanted to represent my fellow classmates and ensure that if something was wrong that it would be rectified. . I have also progressed to becoming the department rep for Social Sciences. Department Reps exist to support the work of Class Representatives and build links between them, their wider School and the Students' Association. I enjoy having the opportunity to help improve the learning experience for myself and my fellow students. I became heavily involved with societies at the end of my second year after helping with Eilidh Fulton campaign for Full Time Officer. We started up new societies and I became even more aware of the different societies and how important they are to a students’ experi- ence. This led me to being responsible for Faith and Culture Socie- ties when sitting on Societies Council. This year I have become the Head of Political, Social and Hobby Societies. I absolutely love my role and the skills that I have learned whilst being on societies council for the past two years. I have learned when to coach and when to mentor, as well as learning about different cultures and religions, as well as assisting with the strategic operations of societies. At present we currently have 2414 society members, with 72 societies overall. This year I have taken on roles within The Student Solidarity Network, The Circle Society GCU and the newly formed Social Sciences Society. The Student Solidarity Network is a society which provides knowledge about trade unionism and we also provide solidarity to university staff who are taking industrial action – you may have seen us on the picket line during the 14 day strike period. The Circle Socie- ty GCU, on the otherhand, is a collective within Chancellor Annie Lennox’s organisation, ‘The Circle’. We bring together students from all walks of life at Glasgow Caledonian University, who have a shared passion and commitment to addressing the issues facing marginal- ised and disempowered women and girls across the globe. I have also been part of the founding team for a Social Sciences Society and we aim to have an event to allow students and staff to come togeth- er before the end of the trimester. Keep an eye out for info! One of the best roles I had this year was being one of the Ethical and Environmental Officers. We had a swap shop back in December and we have a Sustainability Fair planned for the 25th of March with some external parties also attending. We worked with GCU Wellbe- ing Team to coordinate a plant giveaway during Go Green Week and it was super successful! We hope that it can happen again in the future. Volunteering whilst at university has been great for me as it has helped me to come out of my shell whilst encouraging me to be who I am and not change myself for anyone. Volunteering at university helps build confidence skills and allows you to meet new people, building friendships for life. It also gives you great experience and is something else to put on your cv which will help you in the future when it comes to seeking employment. Societies and liberation groups allow you to experience the social sciences in real life. I encourage everyone to get involved with societies, sports clubs, liberation groups, student medias and representation groups. I promise you will not regret it! You can find out more about sports clubs, societies, liberation and representation groups as well as both student media groups by visiting- www.gcustudents.co.uk. The end of second year can bring about a sense of anxiety for many social science students as, faced with choosing your modules for 3rd year, you are forced to begin questioning your future career path and, there- fore, what pathway your degree should follow. Discipline specialism begins with module choices. First and second year gives you a great insight into the different subjects that the Social Sciences have to offer wheth- er it be Politics, History, Criminology, Sociology or Economics. More details on how to pick your modules and what the choices are will be released in the months to the follow so keep an eye out – make sure you check your e-mails regularly! Things that I found useful to bear in mind when I was making my module choices:  It’s important to consider your ideal job or the field you aim to work in, and what skills each special- ism would provide you with for the future – if you need help with this check out the careers service.  If you’re not interested in a module it can lead to a lack of work ethic and studying can feel like a chore. So, go with what you’re interested in or a subject you enjoyed in first and second year.  Don’t just pick a module because your friends are taking it. Remember it’s your future and your ex- periences and module choices could affect the types of jobs you are able to apply for  If you’re not sure about what to pick, speak to the staff running the modules or even students from the years above. They will be more than happy to provide you with more information.  It can be a stressful period so make sure you do your research to make the best choice for you. Personally, I am very happy with the choices I selected at the end of 2nd year. I would really like to do something in a political field so I se- lected politics and history modules. I have enjoyed both these subjects but at the same time I feel I have gained knowledge and skills that will help me achieve my goal of working within the civil service or elsewhere within this field. Page 3 The Social Scientist The Social Scientist Student Activism for the Common Good!
4. 4 If you want to follow us in between newsletters please like/follow our social media pages. You can find us on Facebook and Twitter and we would love you to subscribe to our blog. Details below! socialsciencesgcu.wordpress.com Introducing!! ... @GCUSocialScience @SocialSciences_GSBS Glasgow Caledonian University Social Science Community Department of Social Sciences I’m Rachael and I work for GCU as a Student Engagement and Communications Assistant. Starting at the beginning of 2019, my role focused on student communications within the SCEBE but more recently I have been given various departments within GSBS which now includes Social Sciences! My role focuses on the implementation of initi- atives and communica- tions aimed at improv- ing student engagement in my assigned schools and departments. One example of this involves sourcing and writing about student success stories for the GCU Stu- dent Newsroom which is run by my team at Stu- dent Communica- tions. I’m always on the look-out for exciting stories, whether a student has won an award, performed at a comedy festival or even head- lined at a large music event – the aim is to celebrate all student successes! If you or anyone you know is involved in something ex- citing or has did anything worth shouting about, feel free to get in touch with me using Rachael.McAlonan@gcu.ac.uk or you can reach me on Where to with social science? Professor John H. McKendrick tells us, what you told him! Although our primary purpose as your academics is to introduce you to the power and wonder of social science, we would be doing you a disservice if we did not encourage you to think about how you can make best use of your social sci- ence skills and knowledge after graduation. To this end, to- ward the end of 2019, we surveyed 3rd and 4th year BA Social Sciences students at GCU to better understand career aspira- tions and to canvass opinion on some new postgraduate de- grees that we are planning to introduce. 73 students respond- ed. We found …  Only one fifth of you (22%) are 100% certain of what you want do, although a further one quarter of you (29%) have “one or two preferred options”.  Although the vast majority of you reported having had explored career options (93%), only a minority of you had engaged the careers service at GCU (13%), secured rele- vant work experience (24%), prepared a Linkedin profile (11%), or had prepared a ‘graduate level’ CV (6%).  The majority of you report that you are at least “likely” to progress to postgraduate study: one quarter of you are 100% certain of this (28%), are “very likely” to progress to it (22%), or are “likely” to progress to it (28%). Interestingly:  Students who joined GCU in 3rd year were much more like- ly than those who joined in 1st year to: (i) express certainty about their post-degree plans; (ii) have explored careers options with the GCU careers service; (iii) secured relevant work experience; and (iv) express a desire to progress to postgraduate study. What do you think? Is there more that you should be doing to prepare for life beyond the BA Social Sciences degree at GCU? Study Focus; Each Member of the Learning and Development Team were asked … ‘If you could tell the students one thing about studying what would it be’ and this is what they came up with ..  Start your assessments early - one thing that affects student work is when they run out of time and they throw something together that doesn’t represent what they know and understand  Spend time taking the question apart and work out a plan that identifies the key points you need to read and write about  Always have a focus for your reading and continually ask yourself why is this text/information relevant to the assignment  To develop critical analysis in your writing always ask how, why and so what questions of your topic  Read your work aloud – you should be able to hear if something isn’t right and you will pick up clumsy writing or grammar mistakes which you will miss when you read to yourself.