Chevrolet Repair: Brake Lights 2001 Cavalier, turn signal switch, 3157 bulb

Question
The brake lights are not working and the dealer quoted $300 to fix the "switch in the steering column"  What is the exact name/desription of the part?  Could we possibly change the part ourselves?

Thanks for your help.

Answer
it could be the turn signal switch in the column.  However the more common problem is the sockets at the rear lights.  Try a new 3157 bulb and put dielectric grease on the bulb and see if it works (it probably will)  If it does then you need new lh and rh socket assemblies.