The problem of extremely large introductory sociology classes is solved by a combination lecture-discussion method in which basic social processes are generated and experienced by the student. General objectives, basic procedures, and rules are outlined; results are discussed. (KM)

Tightening economic conditions have forced sociology instructors interested in using expensive visual materials in their classes to seek other sources of funding support. Discussed are innovative ways of funding and administering courses making use of commercial films. The team-taught course, "Images of Women in Film," is used as a case study.…

The author describes a teaching innovation in which undergraduates were used to lead weekly discussion sections of lower division sociology courses. The selection process of teaching assistants, student reactions, and possible solutions to potential problems are presented. (Author/DE)

The use of senior undergraduate students as lab-discussion leaders in an experimental introductory sociology course is examined. Results of the program indicate little or no increased learning over a control group. Student reaction to the course was favorable. Further utilization of undergraduates and careful study are emphasized. (Author/DE)

Describes a social psychology experiment at the University of New Hampshire involving the use of skits to demonstrate concepts. Findings indicate that students in the experimental group perceived the skits as valuable and interesting. Results are compared with the original hypotheses. (Author/DB)

Outlines a model of instruction that uses Marvin Olsen's reconceptualization of sociology as "sociological practice" to integrate sociological practice into traditional courses. States that this approach helps students gain a critical perspective and overcome personal and cultural ideological constraints in dealing with real issues…

Discusses the problem of conceptual integration when preparing and teaching courses that combine two established subspecialty areas within a discipline. Provides an example of such a course that integrates medical sociology and the sociology of aging. Describes the major readings and course outline. (NL)

The academic weaknesses in the CLASP program (described in SO 504 356) are examined by sociology professors at the same university. (DE)

The author describes a series of four experimental college courses in which students develop appreciation of the elemental aspects of the process of direct social interaction. The approach is a series of exercises developed for training actors. The technique and rationale are examined; teaching guidelines are presented. (Author/DE)

Focuses on the use of cognitive mapping within sociology. Describes an assignment where students created a cognitive map that focused on names of theorists and concepts related to them. Discusses sociological imagination in relation to cognitive mapping and the assessment of the assignment. (CMK)

Describes the program Discovery located in western Massachusetts designed to incorporate experiential learning into the teaching of criminology, juvenile delinquency, social deviance, and related subjects. Reports that the program has proven to be useful in providing concrete experiences and has been widely praised by the host agencies. (KO)

Discusses experimental innovative teaching methods developed to hold the attention of a large introductory sociology class. Focuses on using popular music to set the stage for discussion. Illustrates social life components are open to sociological interpretation and defines student participation. Notes use of four primary strategy goals considered…

Describes a system, Infracom, which enables students to influence content and structure in introductory college level sociology courses. Infracom involves writing evaluations of class meetings, making comments in class, and helping determine learning aids. (Author/DB)

Urges that students change from dualistic or relativistic thinking toward a sociological perspective on health, illness, and healing. Discusses feature films and how they can be used as case studies on mental illness, death-dying, and the political economy of illness. Appends an annotated list of films. (NL)

Reports on efforts of two professors to counter the adverse effects of large survey classes. Data are presented concerning their efforts to encourage students to formulate and hand in written spontaneous questions concerning material presented in the lectures. Suggests that this procedure stimulates critical thinking by both instructor and…