SUSTech | Introduction to Sociology of Education
This General Education (GE) elective course offers a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental theories and frontier issues within the sociology of education. Designed to cultivate strong critical thinking and interdisciplinary analysis, particularly benefiting STEM students, the course equips learners to use sociological frameworks to objectively analyze contemporary social challenges and educational reforms. The small class size (maximum 32 students) fosters a highly interactive learning environment, supported by weekly readings of classic sociological texts. Key assignments include a group mid-term research design summary and an individual final presentation (30% of the final grade). No prerequisites are required.
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Content Summary
This General Education (GE) elective course offers a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental theories and frontier issues within the sociology of education. Designed to cultivate strong critical thinking and interdisciplinary analysis, particularly benefiting STEM students, the course equips learners to use sociological frameworks to objectively analyze contemporary social challenges and educational reforms. The small class size (maximum 32 students) fosters a highly interactive learning environment, supported by weekly readings of classic sociological texts. Key assignments include a group mid-term research design summary and an individual final presentation (30% of the final grade). No prerequisites are required.
This course provides an introduction to core sociological theories (Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Bourdieu) and frameworks used to analyze educational reforms, social stratification, and inequality, fostering advanced critical thinking skills.
Learning Objectives
- Master fundamental sociological theories (e.g., Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Bourdieu) and apply them to critically analyze the structure and function of the educational system.
- Analyze the complex roles of education in both fostering social mobility and perpetuating social stratification and inequality.
- Evaluate contemporary educational challenges and reforms, including curriculum sociology, language codes, and the evolution of higher education.
- Cultivate interdisciplinary critical thinking skills and practice basic sociological research design and objective analysis of real-world social issues.