Active learning ideas
Can sociology be a science? This classic debate pits Positivists, who believe society can be studied objectively using quantitative methods, against Interpretivists, who argue that human meaning is too complex for the scientific method. Students will also explore the views of Kuhn (paradigms) and Popper (falsification).
Activity 01
One side argues that sociology is a science (Positivism), the other that it is an art (Interpretivism). They must use examples like Durkheim's study of suicide to prove their point.
Can society be studied using the methods of the natural sciences?
Activity 02
Groups are given a 'theory' (e.g., 'all students are lazy'). They must find a way to 'falsify' it (Popper), explaining why this is more scientific than trying to prove it true.
What are the interpretivist critiques of positivism?
Activity 03
Display major shifts in scientific thought (e.g., Flat Earth to Round Earth). Students discuss whether sociology has ever had a single 'paradigm' that everyone agrees on.
How do paradigms shape scientific and sociological knowledge?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Science is 100% objective and always right.
Kuhn argued that science is shaped by 'paradigms' and social pressure. A 'paradigm shift' role play helps students see that science is also a social product.
Interpretivists don't use any evidence.
They use qualitative evidence to gain 'Verstehen' (deep understanding). Peer discussion of 'thick description' helps students see that qualitative data is still rigorous and evidence-based.
Methods used in this brief
The Nature of Sociological Research
An evaluation of the relationship between sociological theory and research methods. Students will consider the practical, ethical, and theoretical factors influencing research design.
8 methodologies
Objectivity, Values, and Social Policy
Students will examine the role of values in sociological research and the relationship between sociology and social policy. They will debate whether value-free sociology is possible or desirable.
8 methodologies