Knowledge and Inquiry · JC 1

Active learning ideas

Knowledge in the Social Sciences: Human Behaviour

The social sciences present unique epistemological challenges. Unlike the natural sciences, the 'objects' of study are human beings who have intentions, emotions, and the ability to change their behavior when being watched. This topic explores whether we can study humans with the same objectivity as atoms, or if we need a different approach (like 'Verstehen' or empathetic understanding).

• MOE Syllabus Outcomes
• SEAB A-Level H2 Knowledge and Inquiry (9751): The Construction of Knowledge - Social Sciences
• SEAB A-Level H2 Knowledge and Inquiry (9751): The Construction of Knowledge - Social Sciences (Methodological Issues)

• 20–45 min
• Pairs → Whole Class
• 3 activities

Activity 01

• Role Play
• 40 min · Whole Class

Role Play: The Hawthorne Effect

Students are divided into 'workers' and 'observers.' The observers change variables (like lighting or breaks) while the workers' productivity is measured. Students then discuss how the presence of the observer influenced the results.

Can human behavior be studied objectively?

• Apply
• Analyze
• Evaluate
• Social Awareness
• Self-Awareness

Activity 02

• Inquiry Circle
• 45 min · Small Groups

Inquiry Circle: Designing a 'Value-Free' Survey

Groups try to write survey questions about a sensitive topic (e.g., social media use) without using 'loaded' language. They then swap surveys and critique them for hidden biases or values.

How do values influence social science research?

• Analyze
• Evaluate
• Create
• Self-Management
• Self-Awareness

Activity 03

• Think-Pair-Share
• 20 min · Pairs

Think-Pair-Share: Natural vs. Social Science

Students list three differences between studying a chemical reaction and studying a protest. They share with a partner to determine if these differences are 'fundamental' or just 'practical.'

What is the role of empathy in understanding society?

• Understand
• Apply
• Analyze
• Self-Awareness
• Relationship Skills

A few notes on teaching this unit

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Watch Out for These Misconceptions

• Social science is 'easier' than natural science because it's just common sense.

  Social science is often 'harder' because variables are nearly impossible to control and humans are unpredictable. Using 'Station Rotations' to look at complex social data can help students see the rigor required.

• Social science can never be objective.

  While perfect objectivity is hard, social scientists use rigorous methods (like triangulation) to minimize bias. Peer-reviewing each other's 'research designs' helps students see how objectivity is pursued in practice.

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Methods used in this brief

• Role Play
• Inquiry Circle
• Think-Pair-Share