NSU 2014-2015 Undergraduate Catalog

448 Nova Southeastern University • Undergraduate Student Catalog • 2014–2015 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS SOCL 2510 Social Problems (3 credits) Focuses on a number of contemporary social problems, analyzing causative factors and exploring alternative solutions. Examines the role of community service agencies in the improvement of some of these problems. Prerequisite: SOCL 1020. SOCL 2600 Sociology of Sport (3 credits) This course will use the investigative tools of sociology to explore the myths and realities of sport, with a particular focus on contemporary American society. It will attempt to answer such questions as: Do sports “build character”? Is “amateurism” a myth? Should professional athletes be paid exorbitant sums of money? Are there elements of racial and sexual prejudice in sports? Do governing bodies exploit athletes? What is the role of athletics in society? Do our established athletic (and societal) institutions serve this purpose? Do sports provide a valid means of upward mobility? Should professional athletes be considered role models? What tools are available to assess the frequency of drug use in sports? Prerequisite: SOCL 1020. SOCL 3000 Research Methods in the Social Sciences (3 credits) Introduction to qualitative research designs commonly used in the social sciences. Discussion of data collection methods such as participant observation and interviewing, focus groups, case studies and ethnographies. Prerequisites: SOCL 1020 or ANTH 1020. SOCL 3100 Sociology of Religion (3 credits) The class will explore religion from a sociological perspective. We will use theory to examine churches, cults, and sects across the globe. In addition, the class will explore the concepts of tradition, belief, ritual, spirituality, and fundamentalism. The class will also look at how religion interacts with other sectors of society such as politics, economics, and social movements. Prerequisites: COMP 2000 or COMP 2000H and SOCL 1020 or ANTH 1020. SOCL 3150 Social Movements (3 credits) This course examines how and why people attempt to bring about social change as well as forces that oppose social change. Various theoretical viewpoints will be used for analysis. Concentration is on twentieth and twenty-first century social movements from case study perspectives. Prerequisite: SOCL 1020. SOCL 3250 Social Theory (3 credits) This course concentrates on the historical development of sociological theory with special reference to its European origins. It will also provide a comparative study and critique of various theoretical accounts on the rise and of the transformations of modern society in the 19th and 20th centuries. Selected topics include the individual, society, SOCL 2030 Medical Sociology (3 credits) The course uses sociological concepts, perspectives and research methods to develop an understanding and awareness of how social, cultural, and behavioral factors influence health, illness and healthcare. Students will study the explanations and theories relating to the distribution of diseases among various population groups, the behaviors or actions taken by individuals to maintain, enhance or restore health or cope with illness, disease and disability. Prerequisite SOCL 1020. SOCL 2100 Sociology of Sexuality (3 credits) This course reviews the sociology of sexuality from a sociohistorical perspective. Among the topics to be discussed are the theoretical approaches to sexuality, the making of sexual identities, the relationship between sexuality and social institutions, and sexual politics and ethics. SOCL 2130 Family Relationships (3 credits) Contemporary patterns of marriage and family living. Approaches to effective living together in family units. Covers both adult and parent-child relationships. Emphasis on communication, supportiveness, and contingency management. SOCL 2200 Ghana: Through a Sociological Lens (3 credits) This course will help students to develop “intercultural competence” by expanding their knowledge, experience and understanding of the diversity of cultures, and at the same time, the interconnectedness of these cultures. Learning and experiencing other cultures are necessary preparations for life in our thoroughly globalizing world. Students in this course will travel to Ghana, a country located in West Africa, on a study abroad trip. Ghana’s history, unique features and conditions make it an ideal location for a study abroad program. Within the African continent Ghana stands out for its unique sociocultural and historical location. The first sub-Saharan country in Africa to gain its independence [in 1957], Ghana is currently one of the most peaceful and stable democracies and rapidly growing economies in Africa. Furthermore, Ghana, formerly called the Gold Coast has an intriguing colonial history, a rich cultural heritage and offers an example of a post-colonial African society with a seamless transition between tradition and modernity. Also, Ghanaian people are noted for their warmth, hospitality, and peaceful and easy going attitudes. Visiting Ghana will offer students the opportunity to explore and experience first-hand the rich diversity of Ghana’s cultural heritage through their direct interaction with the people and visits to several historical, geographical and cultural sites. More important, visiting a country in which modern forms of living and indigenous traditions co-exist, will further enhance students’ understanding of the dynamics of social and cultural change. Prerequisites: None.