57850 - Sociology of Migrations

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student is able to understand and contextualise contemporary migration processes, with reference to general trends, the causes of migration, the links between immigration and the labour market, and immigration-related urban changes. Through in-depth studies on ethnic networks, gender differences and families, second generations and refugees, the student is able to gather and understand the fundamental elements of migration regulation and immigrant policies.

Course contents

The course aims to provide students with the principal conceptual and analytical tools required for a sociological analysis of migration, introducing the most influential theoretical frameworks, recent developments, and the key critical issues that have emerged in contemporary scholarly debate.

Module 1 reconstructs the main coordinates of the contemporary debate on international migration and examines the principal theoretical approaches to the study of migration, drawing on contributions from a range of disciplinary perspectives. The module also addresses the recent trend towards the externalisation of migration governance policies, as well as the processes of racialisation that shape labour sectors employing migrant workers. The principal course readings for this module are works by Ambrosini and Gargiulo.

Module 2 situates the sociological theories presented throughout the course within a concrete empirical context through the study of Abdelmalek Sayad's analysis of Algerian migration to France, regarded as an "exemplary" case of migration. This module introduces and critically discusses Sayad's seminal contribution to the sociology of migration, demonstrating how a sociological perspective on migration can be developed through the analysis of a specific historical and social case.

Module 3 offers a critical examination of the relationship between the social sciences of immigration and political action, drawing on Chapter 3 of Schinkel's work. The course concludes with a critical reflection on the historical and social transformations that have given rise to contemporary forms of racism, based on Chapter 4 of the same text.

Readings/Bibliography

1. Maurizio Ambrosini, Sociologia delle migrazioni, Il Mulino, Bologna, 2020. Chapters 1-10 (1st part: coordinate e processi fondamentali // 2nd part: attori emergenti // 3rd part: la dimensione politica)

2. Abdelmalek Sayad, La doppia assenza. Chapters: 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-11-12.

3. Enrico Gargiulo Contro l’integrazione. Ripensare la mobilità. [https://www.meltemieditore.it/autore-nome-cognome/enrico-gargiulo/]. Chapters: 1-3

4. Schinkel, Willem. Imagined societies: A critique of immigrant integration in Western Europe. Cambridge University Press, 2017. Chapters: 3-4

Teaching methods

Lectures will be complemented by in-class discussions, fostering active student participation and engagement throughout the course.

Assessment methods

The examination is designed to assess the achievement of the following learning objectives:

1. The ability to identify the essential features of the discipline;

2. Knowledge of the evolution of the sociological debate on migration phenomena;

3. The ability to identify and analyze the main characteristics of contemporary migration phenomena;

4. The ability to apply the core interpretative concepts of the discipline.

The final grade for the course is determined either through:

• Students who wish to take the early examination session (pre-appello) will receive their final grade on the basis of a written examination covering the required course readings.
• Alternatively, students may take an oral examination during the official examination sessions, held on the dates regularly published on AlmaEsami.

 

Positive assessment will be given to students who demonstrate a strong command of the required readings, an integrated and coherent understanding of the key topics covered in the course, and the ability to articulate their thoughts clearly and effectively using appropriate academic language.

Grading Criteria

Grade Description

30 with honors Outstanding theoretical mastery, flawless application of concepts, originality, excellent logical structure, and clear, engaging presentation

28–30 Excellent theoretical understanding, solid conceptual application, strong argumentation, effective presentation

25–27 Good general understanding, correct but limited application, some theoretical gaps

21–24 Sufficient understanding with theoretical or practical inaccuracies, weak or inconsistent analysis

18–20 Minimal understanding of core concepts, superficial application, incomplete or incoherent work

Below 18 Fail: insufficient critical understanding, work not submitted or inadequate in content or structure

Students who are unable to write or speak in Italian for justified reasons may take the written or oral examination in one of the following languages: French, English, Portuguese, or Spanish.

 

Notice for students with specific learning disabilities (SLD) or temporary/permanent disabilities:
Students are advised to contact the University's dedicated office in advance:
https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en
The office will evaluate and suggest any appropriate accommodations. These accommodations must be submitted for approval to the course instructor at least 15 days prior to the exam date. The instructor will assess the suitability of such requests in relation to the course’s learning objectives.

Use of Electronic Devices and Artificial Intelligence Tools. During all examinations, the use of personal electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, laptops, or any other internet-enabled devices, is strictly prohibited. Consequently, the use of generative Artificial Intelligence tools (including, but not limited to, ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini, or similar applications) is not permitted. Any use of such devices or tools during an examination constitutes a violation of academic integrity and will be dealt with in accordance with the University's regulations.

Teaching tools

Slides available on virtuale

Office hours

See the website of Carolina Mudan Marelli