Looks at five questions that serve as the core of an introductory sociology course, presenting the essence of sociology without inundating the student with information: What is sociology? How do societies develop rules for living? What if the rules don't work? How are new rules developed? So what? (AYC)

Leo Strauss' views concerning the way to teach political philosophy are discussed. The essay begins with a summary of Strauss' general conception of classical political philosophy. The remainder of the essay discusses the content of Strauss' book "What is Political Philosophy?" (RM)

Hegel's teaching is often omitted or considered summarily in political philosophy courses. In order to reduce these difficulties, an introductory discussion of Hegel's political thought in the context of a dialogue is presented. (RM)

A proposal is presented for a Community College of Philadelphia course surveying basic social science skills and information, including scientific method, map usage, evolution, native peoples, social groups, and U.S. Government. Following a standard cover form, a statement of purpose for the course indicates that it is designed to provide…

Discusses Rutgers University's departmentally based "Gateway" retention program for underprepared students. Explains that, in "Gateway Sociology 101," students learn sociology in extraordinarily positive conditions. Reports that instructors pursue expanded goals, offer extra classroom time, monitor attendance, teach in teams,…

Described is the design and administration of a large two-semester course in principles of economics that permits both students and faculty some choice of both subject matter and meeting times. Students complete a standardized nine-week core and are then allowed to select topical modules. Advantages and disadvantages are discussed. (Author/RM)

This document provides information about an undergraduate course that introduces college students to major social, economic, and political influences that have affected the demographic structure of the nation's population over the last four decades. The course permits students, working in small teams, to investigate the ways in which changes in…

Responds to Graeme Decarie's recommendation to teach processes in introductory history by citing E. D. Hirsch's argument that a general body of knowledge is necessary for intelligent discourse. Argues that an understanding of historical chronology must be developed in the introductory history course. (LS)

Undergraduate introductory sociology courses should actively engage students in learning the concepts, theories, and research methods that comprise the core knowledge of the discipline. The course should introduce the social theorists Durkheim, Marx, Mead, and Weber. Social concepts of the human group, social system, and social organization;…

One of a series of resources for teaching sociology at the postsecondary level, this volume contains syllabi and a bibliography of instructional materials for courses in political sociology. Material is arranged in four sections. Section 1, an introduction, provides an overview of the American Sociological Association Teaching Resources Center, a…

Discusses recent efforts to incorporate transferable "enterprise skills" into British higher education. Examines the role of geographers in the endeavor. Illustrates how a first-year geography course was adapted to a practical skills approach. Argues that enterprise skills are better incorporated into the existing curriculum and not…

Discusses the difficulties of providing unity in introductory political science classes. Argues that beginning students will better understand politics if they are shown how to conceive of political figures and events in the same terms as their own experience. Urges a definition of politics that stresses people's relations to one another rather…

Suggests a method for teaching history as a means of exposing students to and enabling them to internalize historical definitions, theories, and uses. Lists topics that should be discussed in an introductory unit on the nature of history. Includes an appendix setting out a schedule of themes for the unit. (SG)

Describes a lecture/discussion activity in which students complete a kinship diagram and discuss the sociological concepts of status, norm, and role. Contends that students enjoy the activity and learn that social roles are determined by a set of expectations for appropriate and inappropriate behavior. Includes a model of the kinship diagram. (CFR)

A college teacher discusses how in his U.S. history survey course he uses the buildings in Philadelphia to illuminate the principal forces of national history. For example, colonial buildings and street plans can help students understand the bourgeois character of early Philadelphia and of other American cities. (RM)