The "Mini-Documentary" Assignment

Abstract

One fundamental challenge of teaching social problems (and sociology more generally) is to successfully bring the problems of the outside world into the classroom. Our attempt was a "mini-documentary" where students conducted and filmed interviews with individuals familiar with local social problems. The film project was designed as a culmination of...

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Details

Subject Area(s):

Introduction to Sociology/Social Problems

Resource Type(s):

Assignment

Class Level(s):

Any Level

Class Size(s):

Medium

Usage Notes

A guide to developing the project is provided in the attachment.

Learning Goals and Assessments

Learning Goal(s):

1. Content: To develop in depth understanding of leading argument and issues in sociology.
2. Application: To develop skill in linking course material, lectures, and discussion to local social problems.
3. Significant Student Learning: To develop a complete, experiential understanding of a specific issue from multiple perspectives using creativity and multiple skill sets.

Goal Assessment(s):

1. Grading rubrics for the assessment of learning goals provided.
2. Mid-course and end-of-course student evaluations are recommended for calibrating the assignment over time.