Social Movement Strategic Action Plan

Abstract

Students will demonstrate and apply their understanding of sociological theories and concepts about social movements by working in groups to: 1) identify an issue around which there is no current social movement; 2) develop a detailed plan for mobilizing people in support or opposition to the issue.

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Details

Subject Area(s):

Collective Behavior/Social Movements, Social Change

Resource Type(s):

Assignment

Class Level(s):

College 100, College 200, College 300, College 400

Class Size(s):

Any

Usage Notes

This assignment serves as the final project for a course on social movements. Students work in groups to experience the challenges of coordinating collective action. Group size can be modified but may require adjustments to learning goals and assignment criteria (e.g., word counts). 

Learning Goals and Assessments

Learning Goal(s):

1. Students will demonstrate their understanding of key sociological concepts and theories about social movements by applying them to each step of the mobilization process.
2. Students will develop their critical thinking and research skills to identify and address both real and hypothetical challenges faced by social movement actors
3. Students will gain firsthand experience of challenges activists may face in coordinating collective action when interests, skills, and commitments vary between individuals.

Goal Assessment(s):

1. Students will demonstrate their understanding of the four different types of social movements (Alternative, Reformative, Redemptive, Transformative) by identifying a social issue they want to address, who/what is the target of change (individual vs. structural), and the degree of change sought (partial vs. total).
2. Students will apply their understanding of framing processes by creating unique materials (e.g., flyers, social media posts, etc.) for the recruitment of potential participants and garnering public awareness and support.
3. Students will identify potential challenges social movement actors may face in their mobilization efforts by drawing on peer-reviewed research and historical examples.
4. Students will coordinate with others to create a unique and insightful plan that addresses key parts of the mobilization process.