Social Problems Syllabus: A Problem-Based Learning Approach

Abstract

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is widely accepted as an effective tool for student learning. In this syllabus, we introduce undergraduate students to Social Problems using a variety of case studies which allow them to apply sociology concepts to the real world. Using this syllabus in an in-person class led to very high student satisfaction (4.67/5 on the...

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Details

Subject Area(s):

Introduction to Sociology/Social Problems

Resource Type(s):

Syllabus

Class Level(s):

College 100

Class Size(s):

Any

Usage Notes

The individual writing assignments and small group projects can be adapted locally or substituted for teaching activities available in TRAILS. We used this identical syllabus in classes ranging from 6-50 people.

Learning Goals and Assessments

Learning Goal(s):

1. Accurately identify terminology used by sociologists to discuss social problems.
2. Evaluate complex case studies in small groups and communicate findings orally.
3. Analyze case studies of real social problems and clearly communicate the analysis in writing.

Goal Assessment(s):

1. Grades on five multiple-choice quizzes which assess knowledge of basic terminology.
2. Grades on eight in-class small group projects.
3. Grades on five writing assignments.