Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

English

Recommended previous knowledge

SV-143 Social Institutions 

ME-110 Practical Social Research 

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course, the students should:  Knowledge 

  • have knowledge about how childhood and families are shaped within specific historical and cultural contexts 
  • have an understanding of the importance of institutional contexts for everyday practices and changes concerning childhoods, family relations and gender 
  • have knowledge of national and international policies regarding childhood, families, gender and welfare 
  • have basic knowledge of strategies for researching everyday life 

Skills 

  • be able to apply sociological concepts and theories to analyze the everyday lives of children and families 
  • be able to make use of sociological theories to discuss policy, institutions and processes related to childhood, families and gender 

 

General competence 

  • have awareness of the complex relationships between people¿s everyday lives and the institutional structures and processes they are part of  

Contents

This course gives an introduction to the sociology of childhood and families. Theoretically, the course is informed by social constructionism, exploring the relationship between everyday practices at the micro level and institutional processes at the macro level. Sociological theory and research exploring diverse family lives and childhoods in and beyond Norway is used to address contemporary understandings of families and childhood in Norway. The course has an integrated gender perspective. It also sheds light on the impact of class, ethnicity, migration, sexuality and generation on family life and childhoods. Topics addressed include:   
  • Families and childhoods in a historical context 
  • Theoretical perspectives on the family and gendered family life 
  • Theoretical perspectives and understandings of childhood and child development 
  • Children and families of the welfare state: policies, professions and institutions 
  • Parenting and grandparenting in contemporary Norway  
  • Childhood in a comparative perspective 
  • Friendship and peer socialization  
  • Researching everyday life  

Teaching and learning methods

The course will consist of lectures as well as self-organized study groups. Study groups are optional, but we strongly recommend that you attend a study group. The lecturers will provide practical exercises for the study groups. All students are expected to engage in on-line discussions by contributing with posts and commenting on other students¿ posts. This course is intended for both Norwegian and international students. Estimated workload is 270 hours. 

Examination requirements

Students are required to submit assignments as specified by the lecturers. Information about compulsory assignments will be given in the LMS at the start of the course.

Examinations

5-day individual home exam (in English or Norwegian), graded A-F. 

Student evaluation

Student evaluation is carried out as a midway evaluation and in accordance with the normal arrangement as described in the quality system, chapter 4.1. If necessary, a possible end of semester evaluation may be implemented.
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 7:01:09 AM