This Unit provides an introduction to the study of social change. You will begin by assessing your own social change awareness and by looking at historical examples of change.
It also provides an overview of the Social Science disciplines, bias, and research methods.
In Unit 2 of this course, we begin to look at how social change occurs. Starting with the theories of social change, the forces that encourage change, and the barriers that prevent change, we will use current examples to apply theoretical learnings. Technology will be examined from the aspect of current advancements, but also with regard to the role it plays in change campaigns. Finally, you will return to your campaign for social change and begin specific research on your chosen topic.
In Unit 3 of this course, we will study social change within the context of social patterns and trends. We will do this first by analysing the demographic trends in Canada and at smaller, neighbourhood-based levels; then we will look at deviance and deterrence when social norms are violated. Finally, you will return to your campaign for social change and will bring together the empirical and field research that was completed in the first two units to create your action plan for this culminating assignment.
In Unit 4 of this course, you will extend your thinking to include a global perspective by looking at a number of different aspects within Campaigns for Social Change. By analysing government and NGO documents, social change documentaries, the role of music in social change, and the current state of an issue of choice in two different countries, you will set the stage for the final task of holistically critiquing a social movement.
This final unit will ask you to critically reflect on many different aspects of your own learning throughout the course. You will address the concept of social change by examining quotations on the topic, return to the Social Change Awareness Survey that was completed at the onset of the course, analyse your own Campaign for Social Change, and finally consolidate your learning using the curriculum expectations of the course.
