SOA 201 - Writing and Interpreting Social Life (4 Cr.)

This course provides a foundation in writing and qualitative research design in the disciplines of sociology and anthropology. The course is team-taught and divided into two main segments. During one part of the course, the focus is on qualitative methods of inquiry, including: in-depth interviewing, focus groups, participant observation, and narrative research. Course readings will allow students to explore the link between theory and methods and examine ethical issues in research as well. The second part of the course will focus on qualitative data analysis and interpretation, as well as developing skills for writing in the disciplines. This writing component of the course includes, (but not limited to) learning how to: develop and support an argument, select and incorporate relevant sources, communicate ideas clearly, find one’s voice in writing, and use appropriate citation styles. An assignment in this course is used to evaluate Writing in the Discipline (WID) for majors in the program. Prerequisite: SOA 100 or permission of instructor. Fall semester. Program Faculty