Classic Workplace Studies in Working Life Science
Course content and form
The course will provide students with an in-depth knowledge of classic workplace studies in Working Life Science, the broader academic context in which they are located and the influence they have had. The course will examine the different methodological approaches taken within workplace studies. The course will explore the theoretical and methodological implications of these studies for contemporary working life science issues and the candidate’s own studies. Five classic readings, including Benyon’s Working for Ford, Anna Pollert’s Girls, Wives, Factory Lives, Hochschild’s Managed Heart and Gluckman/Cavendish’s Women on the Line, will be studied in fortnightly sessions over a 10 week period.
Course goals
After completing the course the doctoral student should be able to:
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of classic workplace studies within Working Life Science
- Evaluate different methodological approaches to workplace studies
- Evaluate the influence of these workplace studies on contemporary research in Working Life Science
- Evaluate the potential application of the theoretical and methodological contributions of workplace studies to their own research
Prerequisites
None
Examination
Assessment for the course will take the form of a written assignment that relates themes drawn from classic workplace studies in Working Life Science to their own thesis. Preparation for, and active participation in, fortnightly seminars is a course requirement.