Introduction to Sociology

Rationale

Why is it important to understand society? Human beings are essentially social creatures. No human exists outside of society, and the normal development of individuals depends upon being socialized into a family, culture, and society. Thus, in order to more fully comprehend ourselves and others, we must understand how social groups, organizations, and social institutions shape who and what we are. Sociology has developed a range of concepts, theories, and methods that help us understand the nature of social life.

Course Description

This introductory course seeks to provide an overview of Sociology as a discipline. It lays the foundation for the students to apply the various theoretical perspectives to contemporary social problems especially as it relates to the world of work.

General objectives

At the end of the course, the students will be able to:

1. Develop an understanding of basic sociological principles, theories and concepts, with emphasis on diverse cultures.

2. Increase his/her understanding of self through the study of diverse human groups, which affect or are affected by the student.

3. Critically analyze a culture, sub-culture, or group to determine sociological factors that distinguish the organization.

4. Recognize the sociological implications of events and trends in the context of a socially, economically, and culturally diverse society.

5. Effectively reinforce cultural competency and communication through writing experiences.

6. Apply sociological concepts and theories to the work place in order to enhance productivity.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this course, learners will be able to:

1. Define Sociology

2. Understand the sociological point of view and see the sociological perspective in everyday life.

3. Understand and explain the Sociological Imagination

4. Identify and explain the key concepts of the Classical Theories in Sociology.

5. Know the contributions of sociology’s pioneers: Comte, Spencer, Durkheim, Marx, and Weber.

6. Understand and appreciate the newer perspectives in Sociology.

7. Understand and explain the basic steps of the sociological research process.

8. Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the various research designs.

9. Know what independent and dependent variables are

10. Distinguish between population and sample.

11. Know how to create a representative sample

12. Recognize researcher bias and how it can invalidate a study.

13. Explain the concepts of reliability and validity.

14. Understand the problems of objectivity and ethical issues that arise in sociological research.