BSW3702 Assignment 2 Guidelines
BSW3702 Assignment 2 Guidelines
The document emphasizes the importance of using only academic resources to ensure credibility and validity in academic writing. Academic resources are typically peer-reviewed and provide reliable information based on research. Examples given include books, journals, and websites with domains like '.ac', '.edu', or '.org', which indicate academic or official sources. Non-academic sources, such as those with '.com', are not considered reliable due to the potential lack of scholarly oversight .
Correctly numbering headings and subheadings is critical as it aids in organizing the essay's content, creating a clear structure that guides the reader through the discussion systematically. This practice ensures each sub-topic is distinct yet related, facilitating a coherent progression of arguments and explanations throughout the essay. It helps in visually segmenting each part of the analysis, allowing the reader to follow and understand the essay's logical flow efficiently .
According to the document, a critical essay should be structured into three main parts: an introduction, the body of discussion, and a conclusion. The introduction should present the topic and explain the approach to be taken in the essay. The body should use numbered headings and sub-headings to organize sub-topics logically while integrating theoretical knowledge with practical examples. The use of a mind map is suggested to plan the flow of arguments and facts systematically. The conclusion should summarize the main discussion and highlight significant findings or conclusions drawn from the essay, providing a succinct closing statement .
The document specifies that an essay must include technical requirements such as using Arial font type, font size 12, and line spacing of 1.5. The alignment should be justified. It must also adhere to technical presentation standards like having a cover page with the assignment title, module code, assignment number, and the student's name. Additionally, there should be a table of contents, correctly numbered questions, a list of references in alphabetical order, and pages numbered. Sources must be appropriately cited within the text and listed according to the guidelines provided in tutorial letter SOCAL36/301/3/2021 .
The document explains that 'Google' is not a valid reference because it is a search engine, not a source of information. It merely directs users to various information sources but does not itself provide academically reliable content. The emphasis is on referencing the specific academic sources from which information is gathered, ensuring the cited material meets credibility and scholarly standards .
Plagiarism can lead to failing an assignment due to the violation of academic integrity. The document advises students to avoid plagiarism by consulting tutorial letters, particularly SOCAL36/301/3/2021, to understand how to appropriately cite sources. It stresses the importance of using one's own words and correctly referencing all consulted sources to ensure authenticity in writing .
Erving Goffman's theoretical framework on stigma defines it as a deeply discrediting attribute that reduces an individual from a whole and usual person to a tainted, discounted one. The main components of his framework include the distinction between the 'virtual social identity' (the anticipated identity) and the 'actual social identity' (the actual identity), leading to the notion of 'spoiled identity' due to stigmatization. Goffman's framework also describes various types of stigma, including physical deformities, character blemishes, and tribal stigmas like race and religion .
Individuals and groups employ numerous strategies to cope with stigma, such as information control, social positioning, and community support. Examples include embracing the stigmatized trait as a point of pride, like the LGBTQ+ pride movements, or using advocacy and education to shift societal norms. In some cases, people engage in 'passing' to blend into non-stigmatized groups or seek refuge in communities where the stigma is less impactful. Public figures may use their platforms to challenge stereotypes and educate others, altering perceptions at broader societal levels .
Stigmatization can have profound social and psychological impacts, leading to social isolation, decreased self-esteem, and identity conflicts. It can impair social interactions by fostering environments of discrimination and exclusion. Individuals may internalize the stigma, leading to negative self-perception, or become hyper-aware of how others perceive them, further adversely affecting mental health. The imposed identity by societal perceptions can create persistent feelings of inadequacy or stress, hindering social integration and full participation in community life .
The conclusion in a critical essay serves as the final synthesis of the discussion. It should encapsulate the key points from the body, summarize the main discussions, and emphasize the major findings or arguments presented. It allows the writer to make final remarks on the topic, express a reasoned personal view, and effectively close the discussion. The conclusion should not be lengthy but should precisely consolidate the discussion, reinforcing the essay's overarching message .