Surveillance, Technology and Control (L4109A)

30 credits, Level 6

Autumn teaching

This module examines key developments and controversies in surveillance and security focusing upon the deployment of surveillance in diverse contexts including crime control; national security; welfare; border control and consumption.

The module introduces a range of historical, theoretical and empirical contexts that advance understanding and the critical analysis of surveillance in society. Through specific case studies - including DNA databases; the Snowden Affair; the 'internet of things' and military surveillance - you are encouraged to analyse contemporary surveillance trends in the light of shifting constellations of power, politics, resistance and control.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 300 hours of work. This breaks down into about 30 hours of contact time and about 270 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to COVID-19, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let our applicants know of material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses:

• Criminology BA
• Criminology and Sociology BA
• Criminology with Psychology BA
• History and Sociology BA
• International Relations and Sociology BA
• Philosophy and Sociology BA
• Politics and Sociology BA
• Sociology BA
• Sociology and International Development BA
• Sociology with Cultural Studies BA
• Sociology with Media Studies BA
• Sociology with a Language BA