Sociology 2: Contemporary Social Problems

                Today's problems cannot be solved if we still think the way we thought when we created them.  ~ A. Einstein

Instructor: Dr. E. Brent Saich  (Psy. D.)

Ofc.  384-6354 (IAC -216)   Home: 388-9550

E-mail: saich.b@mccd.edu

WEB:  www.mccd.edu/faculty/saich

Text: Outlines and assignments will be provided.

Course Description:  The course is a facilitative approach designed to apply critical theory to social problems as they impact society with special emphasis on the local community. Off campus research is expected.

Course Objective:  Success for this course is determined by how well students gain an understanding of social issues.  Students are encouraged to develop their own theories regarding those problems that plague our society, and apply (theoretically) the skills necessary to “make a difference.”

Instructional Strategies: Andragogical interaction. Group work is an integral component of this class.  Outside research and assessment will be shared in class via an open forum discussion.  Class presentations will occupy a significant portion of the time allotted.  Short assignments, research, and a project will account for approximately 60% of the grade.  Class interaction, group participation, and creative input equals approximately 40% of overall grade.  Come to class prepared to discuss ISSUES and CONCERNS.

Attendance:  You are graded in part on participation; absences affect participation.  If you are not in class when assignments are distributed it is YOUR responsibility to get the assignment.

Assignments:  Weekly assignment sheets will be distributed on the first class period of each week and generally due on the last.  If you are planning to be absent on any day an assignment is due then you may email it to me, otherwise you should hand it in during class.

Methods of Evaluation: In-class discussion, research, presentations, critical thinking papers, internet exercises, INTERACTION.  Your input into this class will have a significant impact on your overall grade.  Be an active recipient of knowledge, not a passive learner.  Facilitate the process…..

Instructor Comments: My intent is to have this class become a source of genuine research, presentation, insight, and social awareness.  As a group we should come together prepared to discuss issues, consider alternatives, make a difference, and have FUN while doing so.

Have an open mind, a keen wit, an insatiable intellect, and an affinity to humor.

                       Neither the life of an individual nor the history of a

                                                   society can be understood without understanding

                                                     both.  C. Wright Mills…the sociological imagination.