SOCIOLOGY

Course objectives

Knowledge and understanding The course aims to introduce students to the specific theoretical and empirical perspective with which sociology approaches the study of society. In particular: - provides a general framework of the sociological approach - introduces the main theoretical traditions - examines the evolution of theoretical debate and empirical research on specific topics of interest to the discipline. Applied knowledge and understanding - Through the acquisition of basic knowledge relating to the panorama of theories and research on various problems and areas of social life, the student will acquire a wealth of skills and analytical tools to understand contemporary social systems and to act with professional competence in specific contexts of intervention. - Understand and experience how theories and concepts guide the observation of social phenomena through the in-depth study of themes and issues of current and social relevance. Making judgements The acquisition of the main analytical categories of sociology is intended to help develop awareness and competence in order to critically interpret social phenomena, their origins and ongoing processes of change. The continuous comparison of theoretical approaches and concrete research cases is aimed at stimulating classroom discussion and fostering the ability to argue and support one's own opinions. Communication skills. The course aims to foster the student's ability to present and communicate acquired knowledge competently and accurately through active participation in classroom discussions. In the examination tests, the assessment takes into account not only the level of knowledge of the topics covered but also the student's argumentative competence and ability to analytically and autonomously interpret the knowledge acquired. Learning skills Learning the main concepts and theoretical categories, as well as methods, for understanding, explaining and intervening in complex social problems will be fundamental for the entire teaching programme. It will also provide useful insights and concepts for those who intend to independently pursue sociological studies and/or apply them in operational contexts.

Channel 1
MARIA GRAZIA GALANTINO Lecturers' profile
Channel 2
ANNA MARIA PAOLA TOTI Lecturers' profile

Program - Frequency - Exams

Course program
The main aim of the course is to introduce the discipline of sociology by providing the conceptual and methodological basis for the study of society in its cultural, political and economic dimensions. The propaedeutic nature of the course allows the acquisition of the fundamental tools of sociological analysis and an overview of the main theoretical and research perspectives. The course is structured according to the key words of the sociological lexicon. The course provides the necessary elements to reconstruct the sociological debate on social stratification and mobility, identity and social recognition, spatial, economic and social inequalities, globalisation and communication, groups, networks and collective movements. On the basis of this historical and conceptual background, the main social transformations taking place in contemporary societies will be outlined.
Prerequisites
No specific preliminary knowledge is required. A basic culture of social sciences may be helpful.
Frequency
Lessons take place in presence
Exam mode
Oral exam Ongoing evaluation The evaluation of knowledge and skills is carried out through different stages: An ongoing assessment of the skills acquired An oral exam covering the parts of the syllabus not included in the ongoing assessments
Lesson mode
There will be lectures and classroom discussions based on the reading of the main classic texts of Sociology. In addition, audio-visual tools: films, documentaries. Questions and class discussion will be strongly encouraged during and after each lecture.
  • Lesson code1022531
  • Academic year2025/2026
  • Coursecorso|33620
  • CurriculumSingle curriculum
  • Year1st year
  • Semester2nd semester
  • SSDSPS/07
  • CFU9
  • Subject areaFormazione Sociologica di base