ADVANCED SEMINAR IN SOCIOLOGY

概要

In this class, we will think about sustainable development from a sociological point of view. While we will place a spotlight on the relationship between modern society and individual well-being, we will start by reading a broad range of literature that will provide us with a solid foundation for discussions on whether our current lifestyle and societal system are sustainable and where problem areas lie. This course spans out over two semesters (starting from Fall) and is mainly directed at 3rd/4th year students in the SPSF Sociology program. Participation is possible for students of the Japanese track sociology program only after prior consultation. The course is a combination of shared readings and discussions on topics of sustainability and well-being, and individual student projects. The weekly readings will be introduced and assigned for presentation at the start of the respective semester. Individual project work: In the spring semester, 3rd year students continue to work on narrowing down their research question by identifying and reading the relevant literature and choosing a theoretical approach to guide their own survey research. This includes presenting on the state of their project to the class several times throughout the semester, as well as submitting a report that contains a full literature review for their research question at the end of semester. 4th year students are expected to take on the role of discussant, helping the 3rd year students with critical and constructive questions and comments. 4th year students will focus on writing up their research according to a timeline discussed at the start of the semester. Throughout the semester, they are expected to present to the class and submit chapters of their thesis/seminar report for comments. By the end of the spring semester, 4th year students are expected to submit their final thesis (deadline is earlier!) or seminar report.

目標

In this class, you will: (1) familiarize yourself with the most recent research on the interrelation of well-being studies and questions of sustainability, (2) practice how to present readings in class, lead a class discussion, or how to constructively function as discussant, (3) learn how to develop an original research question, design and carry out an individual research project, (4) practice academic writing.

授業外の学習

You should expect to spend about 3 hours preparing each week. All students are expected to attend regularly and participate actively.

所要時間: At least 190 minutes per weekly session.