Sociology 101

How sociologists study groups, institutions and social change.

Level

Foundations

Who it is for

Everyone from about age 14: young people, adults, parents and newcomers. No prior knowledge is needed.

Format

Self-paced online, in plain language, with maps, figures, short quizzes and a discussion.

About 6 hours. Hours are an estimate.

What you will be able to do

• Explain core sociological ideas such as institution, identity and inequality.
• Read a simple survey table.
• Apply a sociological question to your own community.

Modules

1. Thinking sociologically. Seeing personal troubles as public issues.
2. Groups and identity. Family, ethnicity, religion and class.
3. Inequality. How it is measured and explained.
4. Social change. Migration, cities and technology.

Assessment

A short check after each module, with feedback. Completion is recorded; it is not an accredited award.

Status

Draft outline for scholarly review. The lessons, readings and questions are in preparation. Completion is recorded; nothing is accredited.

This course is shared by IDCDC and KCO. Course codes: IDCDC-SSC-01 (IDCDC) and KCO-SSC-01 (KCO).