This study presents an experiential exercise designed to heighten students' awareness of overconsumption in the United States and allow them to see how their own consumption habits are linked to larger social factors. Students engaged in the "Not Buying It" project--which involved refraining from purchasing all but essentials for a set…

Argues that students often memorize, without critical analysis, components and processes of subjects in the sociology curriculum. Suggests that using cross-cultural, comparative material is a means of stimulating the critical energy of students, and subverting the tendency toward uncritical acceptance of factual "nuts and bolts." (DB)

Asserts that not using a cross-cultural approach to American Studies is paradoxical, since comparative analysis is the principal sociological method of discovery and proof. Describes an American Studies course in which the core is comparative analyses of work and education in other countries. (CFR)

Describes a class research project where U.S. students interviewed foreign students enrolled in English language conversation programs. The U.S. students specifically asked questions regarding the foreign students' reaction to U.S. culture. The most productive aspect of the project, however, came from the students thinking and writing about the…

Describes a classroom-based research project that focused on issues of cultural pluralism. Students interviewed foreign students living with U.S. host families as well as the families. They also examined student handbooks and orientation materials. Discusses the implementation and outcome of the project. (MJP)

Describes developing and teaching a college cultural pluralism course at California State University in Los Angeles. Maintains that the course used a political economy perspective and cooperative learning techniques. Discusses course objectives, class activities, and course materials. (CFR)

Maintains that, during the 1980s, it was difficult to find classroom approaches that effectively challenged racial and class stereotypes. Describes a college community service project designed to teach students about racial, social, and gender discrimination. (CFR)