SOCI 1101 Introduction to Sociology

Introduction to the sociological approach to understanding social life. An examination of the basic theories, concepts and methods for analyzing society, and an overview of social processes and social structures.

Credits

3

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon the completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate the following outcome-based learning skills:

1. Understand sociology as an academic discipline including what it is that sociologists focus on and knowledge of key themes, theories, approaches, and debates in contemporary sociology. 
2. Cultivate and use a sociological imagination. Know what it means to critically engage social life sociologically. Sociology is a distinct perspective. Consider both macro-level social structures and micro-level facets of everyday life through the lens of sociology. Social life is complex. By connecting sociological insights to everyday experiences, examine social life a more nuanced, enlightened way. 
3. Possess honed critical thinking skills. Sharpen critical thinking to assist in a life-long journey of separating truth from conventional wisdom and knowledge from sophistry. 
4. More comfortably articulate and defend their positions on several controversial social issues in front of an audience of peers. Cultivate a public voice to the subject matter of this course. 
5. Maintain increased comfort with the practice of simultaneously considering multiple, contrasting views.
6. “Know thyself” a bit better. Ability to reflect on some of the “big” questions in life. Who are you? Why do you do what you do? What is your life about?