Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title	Applied Ethics
Module Code	HSS302
School	Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Semester 1: Bert Gordijn Semester 2: Bert Gordijn Autumn: Bert Gordijn
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

The purpose of this course is to provide an introduction into the field of applied ethics and to develop elementary skills in applying the main ethical theories (virtue ethics, deontology, utilitarianism) to contemporary issues and practical settings. During the module students will be introduced to and engage in ethical analysis and discussion of a variety of issues in three main areas: 1) technological change, 2) business, social entrepreneurship and innovation, and 3) research in the humanities and social sciences. The first two domains are arguably amongst the most significant factors shaping contemporary culture and society. The third domain is directly relevant to the students' own work: study of this domain aims to enable them to get a good understanding of ethical issues in carrying out field research in the Humanities and Social Sciences. The learning method of the course consists of both theory (through assigned readings and lectures) and practical exercises (class discussion of case-studies and team work), to enhance the participants' analytical and communication skills in dealing with real life decision-making situations. Regular attendance of classes, study of reading material for class preparation, and contribution to classes by engaging in constructive discussions are expected, and are part of the overall coursework. Finally, students will be encouraged to examine one particular issue in depth in their final paper.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate a basic understanding of the main ethical theories (virtue ethics, deontology, utilitarianism).
2. Display a critical awareness of contemporary ethical issues related to 1) technological change, 2) business, social entrepreneurship and innovation, and 3) research in the humanities and social sciences.
3. Refer appropriately to the main ethical theories to elucidate these ethical issues.
4. Apply an appropriate ethical decision-making model to explore resolutions to ethical problems.
5. Construct reasoned arguments for a justified course of action in ethically difficult cases.
6. Give evidence of a solid ethical analysis and in depth understanding of one particular issue in one of the three above-mentioned domains by completion of a paper.

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Lecture	8	Minimum 4 hrs
Group work	8	Smal group case discussions
Debate	4	Plenary case discussions
Lecturer-supervised learning (contact)	4	Questions and answers
Lecturer supervised learning	21	Preparation classes
Independent learning	80	Preparation of research paper
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Introduction to ethics.
History, characteristics, and models of moral reasoning and their application to various fields. Special focus on the three most important traditions in ethics: virtue ethics, deontology, utilitarianism..

Technological change.
Ethical analysis of topical emerging technologies that are developing faster and with a bigger impact than ever before. Focus on how these technologies change contemporary culture and society..

Business, social entrepreneurship and innovation.
Ethical analysis of entrepreneurship, its various intended goals (profit, serving stakeholder interests, social change etc.) as well as its unintended impacts on contemporary culture and society..

HSS research.
Analysis and discussion of the practical ethical challenges of research in the humanities and social sciences..

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	100%	Examination Weight	0%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Essay	Completion of research paper	75%	Sem 1 End
Performance evaluation	Group assignment	25%	n/a

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1

Indicative Reading List