SEJ 302 Activism and Social Movements
Social movements are important arenas for social change. By joining together, individuals can work to transform social values or norms, establish collective identities, change laws, and prevent businesses from running as usual. Students explore social movements by examining how they develop, are sustained, and (sometimes) decline. They begin by reviewing theories of social movements and look at how our understanding of social movements has changed over time. Students also examine mobilization to social movements and reflect on the reasons why some people come to participate. In contrast, others do not, as do various social movements' tactics, goals, and successes. The primary focus is on theories of social movements and collective action by examining contemporary movements. Students learn the analytic tools necessary to investigate and critically assess the role of social movements in our society. They become participant observers at a protest event and engage in original research by interviewing activists or engaging in frame analysis, ultimately applying the theoretical concepts they learn in class to their data.
Learning Outcomes
Compare and contrast various Western and Islamic viewpoints on activism and social movements (e.g., voting rights, climate justice, healthcare, refugee crisis, income gap, racial injustice, food insecurity, etc.).
Analyze, interpret, critique, and present arguments, assumptions, concepts, and leading theories related to activism and social movements or the study of related issues.
Design a research project incorporating a clear hypothesis, literature review, and data analysis on social movements.
Propose solutions for preserving and promoting human rights, dignity, and freedom.
Analyze data using theories in the study of activism and develop an original, compelling argument using evidence-based reasoning.
Present research findings orally and in writing meaningfully to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Identify issues from multiple perspectives, and apply key social justice concepts to activist projects, their life, and non-social justice academic coursework.
Apply qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to research.
Format citations and bibliographic entries and use standard style conventions for scholarly writing.
Design and carry out research in collaboration with their peers.