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This course is designed as an introduction to key sociological theories, with a focus on how these impact the dynamics of social change. The theories covered range from micro social- psychology perspectives to macro-structural approaches. The course specifically interrogates how ideas about the nature of social relations influence our perceptions of how social systems are constructed, deconstructed and reconstructed. The course opens up the space for students to reflect on their own personal life journeys as well as provides the opportunity for vigorous debate around real-time contemporary issues and engagement with how theoretical frameworks actively shape the macro sphere and our collective lives. Most importantly, students experience how social theories are driving agents of change on the personal, local and global levels. Registration priority is given to students whose programs require this course. Prerequisite: GS 101, PXD 151, SOC 101 or SOC 201. (SOC 225)
Core: WI
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This course provides an overview of explanations of violence at the personal, group, societal and national levels. Causes of violence are context-specific, multi-causal, multi-dimensional and may result from a variety of political and social, socioeconomic, and resource and environmental factors. The relationship between violence and social change will be explored. There will be special focus on explanations of war, terrorism, gun violence, and identity-based violence (gender-based, hate crimes, etc.). (Fall 20232025)
PXD 341 Mediation and Facilitation (3 SH)
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This course is designed to help students explore the theory and practice of program evaluation, especially if interested in working in social service, business development, mission-related programs or projects, and local or international NGOs. The course will review the current range of thinking on the philosophies, purpose, and structure of program evaluation, with an emphasis on how to use qualitative methods in evaluations. Students will gain hands-on experience in how to design an evaluation, how to determine the appropriate methods and collect data, and an analysis of ongoing program evaluation and evaluation reports. Sociological and anthropological approaches will provide the theoretical and philosophical background for our work, but the focus will be on practical applications of qualitative methodology in evaluation. Prerequisite: SOC 336. (PAX 516) (Fall 20232025)
PXD 485 Global Development (3 SH)
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