Part I
Course Duration: 1 semester
No. of Credit Units: 3
Level: B2
Medium of Instruction: English
Medium of Assessment: English
Prerequisites: NIL
Precursors: NIL
Equivalent Courses: NIL
Exclusive Courses: NIL
Part II
Course Aims
This course is to introduce students to the basic concepts and application of methods in applied sociology. It aims to
- engage students in the field and substance of applied sociology
- train students to apply sociological theories and methods to examine real social life issues; and
- strengthen students" understanding of how theories, concepts, and sociological research are central to social problem-solving, policymaking, and the skills required in a variety of occupational settings.
Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs)
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to: No. | CILOs | Weighting
(if applicable) |
1. | Demonstrate sociological imagination by juxtaposing common sense with sociological understandings; | 20% |
2. | Apply sociological perspectives to critically analyze social issues and social behaviour; | 30% |
3. | Apply appropriate methods and techniques to identify, investigate and actively seek solutions to social issues; | 30% |
4 | Enhance students" understanding of the real world from a more critical, reflexive and sociologically-informed perspective. | 20% |
Teaching and Learning Activities (TLAs)
(Indicative of likely activities and tasks designed to facilitate students' achievement of the CILOs. Final details will be provided to students in their first week of attendance in this course)
CILO No. | TLA1 | TLA2 | TLA3 | TLA4 | Hours / course
(if applicable) |
CILO 1 | X | | X | X | |
CILO 2 | X | X | X | X | |
CILO 3 | X | | X | X | |
CILO 4 | X | X | X | X | |
TLA1: Lectures
In the weekly lectures the students are introduced the basic topics in applied sociology.
TLA2: Class Assignments
In the weekly lectures the students are required to participate in a wide variety of assignments, ranging from assigned readings, video viewing, quiz and problem-solving.
TLA3: Group Project
Students are required to do a group project on a social issue/problem/situation/phenomenon in Hong Kong. For the students to practice interview skills, each group member should lead one interview. Group presentations are arranged at the 12th week for each group to report their main findings within 10-15 minutes. Each group should also submit a written report.
TLA4: In-class test
Students are required to attend a two-hour test which includes multiple choice questions, short essay questions and essay questions.
Assessment Tasks/Activities
(Indicative of likely activities and tasks designed to assess how well the students achieve the CILOs. Final details will be provided to students in their first week of attendance in this course)
CILO No. | Type of Assessment Tasks/Activities | Weighting (if applicable)
State CILOS in percentages | Remarks |
CILO 2-4 | AT1: Class assignments | 20% | |
CILO 1-4 | AT2: Group Project | 45% | Presentation 15% + written report 30% |
CILO 1-4 | AT3: In-class test | 35% | |
AT1: Class assignments
In the weekly lectures the students are required to participate in a wide variety of assignments, ranging from assigned readings, video viewing, quiz and problem-solving.
AT2: Group Project
Students are required to do a group project on a social issue/problem/situation/phenomenon in Hong Kong. For the students to practice interview skills, each group member should lead one interview. Group presentations are arranged at the 12th week for each group to report their main findings within 10-15 minutes. Each group should also submit a written report.
AT3: In-class test
Students are required to sit a two-hour test which includes multiple choice questions, short essay questions and long essay questions.
Grading of Student Achievement:
Grading mode: Standard (A+, A, A-...F). Grading is based on student performance in assessment tasks/activities.
It is decided that the Department will adopt the simple "A+ to F" grading system in accordance with university regulations. Descriptive performance standards as it applies to the course will be included in the course outline delivered to the students at the beginning of the course.
Part III
Keyword Syllabus:
Applied versus basic sociology; historical development of applied and clinical sociology; the relationship between theory and practice; functions of theory/model in basic sociology; functions of theory/model in applied sociology; roles of sociologists; issues of knowledge, objectivity and personal involvement; developing applied techniques; research methods and research methodology; developing applied techniques: program development, impact assessment, and program evaluation; intervention and problem solving in applied sociology; sociology as applied: population, education, community involvement, correctional and rehabilitation services, and leadership styles.