BGS-002 IGNOU Solved Assignment 2026-27

Course Scope and Syllabus Overview for BGS-002: Gender, Science, Technology and Society

IGNOU’s BGS-002: Gender, Science, Technology and Society is a foundational course within the School of Gender and Development Studies, designed to critically examine the intersections of gender, science, and technology through interdisciplinary lenses. This course explores how scientific and technological advancements have historically been shaped by gendered power structures, while also analyzing the socio-cultural implications of these fields on marginalized communities. Students delve into feminist theories, case studies, and policy frameworks to understand the role of gender in shaping technological innovation, workplace dynamics, and local knowledge systems. The curriculum equips learners with analytical tools to evaluate the ethical, political, and economic dimensions of science and technology, preparing them for research, advocacy, or policy-making roles in gender-sensitive development contexts.

Key Syllabus Units and Topics

• Block-1 Introduction to Gender and Science: This unit introduces core concepts of gender as a social construct and its interplay with scientific inquiry, including critiques of androcentric methodologies and the exclusion of women’s contributions in scientific history.
• Block-2 Historical and Theoretical Contexts: Students analyze the evolution of gendered epistemologies in science, from Enlightenment thought to contemporary feminist epistemologies, while examining how colonialism and globalization influenced scientific knowledge production.
• Block-3 Women and Local Knowledge: Focuses on the marginalization of indigenous and women’s local knowledge systems in formal scientific discourse, exploring alternatives like participatory research and community-based science for equitable development.
• Block-4 Women and Science and Technology Workplaces: Investigates gender disparities in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, workplace discrimination, and strategies for fostering inclusive environments through policy and institutional reforms.
• Block-5 Feminism and Science: Evaluates feminist critiques of science, including postcolonial feminism and ecofeminism, and their implications for redefining scientific practices to be more democratic, ethical, and gender-responsive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How are Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs) for BGS-002 graded, and what weightage do they carry in the final evaluation?
A: TMAs for BGS-002 contribute 30% to the final grade, with each assignment carrying equal marks. Assessments focus on clarity, critical analysis, and adherence to IGNOU’s prescribed word limits and academic standards.

Q: What is the minimum pass percentage required for BGS-002, and how are internal assessments structured?
A: The minimum pass percentage for BGS-002 is 40%, with internal assessments comprising 30% (TMA) and 70% (Term-End Examination). The TEE evaluates conceptual understanding across all blocks, while TMAs assess application-oriented skills.