Situated Knowledge: Moving Beyond the Objectivity/Subjectivity Binary

Abstract

This activity provides students with a hands-on experience of situated knowledge, demonstrating how knowledge is shaped by perspective and positionality rather than fitting neatly into the objectivity/subjectivity binary. Using physical barriers representing social identities (e.g., race, gender, class, nationality), students observe and...

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Details

Subject Area(s):

Cultural Sociology, Ethnography, Introduction to Sociology/Social Problems, Knowledge, Qualitative Methodology, Race, Class and Gender, Research Methods, Social Change, Sociological Practice, Theory

Resource Type(s):

Class Activity

Class Level(s):

College 100, College 200, College 300

Class Size(s):

Small

Usage Notes

I use this activity in an Introduction to Sociology course as part of a module titled “Methods: Producing Scientific Knowledge.” This module introduces students to sociological research methods, beginning with a foundational discussion on:

• 
  
• What constitutes knowledge?
  
• What distinguishes...

Learning Goals and Assessments

Learning Goal(s):

1. Critically Analyze the Objectivity/Subjectivity Dichotomy
2. Understand the Concept of Situated Knowledge
3. Apply Situated Knowledge to Their Own Experiences

Goal Assessment(s):

1. In-class discussion
2. Short written reflection