The "Why" Behind the "What"
Understanding the design and philosophy of our course.
The Narrative Logic
The course tells a story, preventing a "random walk through a textbook." Each module builds on the last, answering a fundamental question about how society works.
Core Theme: Double-Edged Sword
Every concept is analyzed through a single lens: social systems have both benefits (order, safety) and costs (inequality, oppression). Our key question is always: For whom?
The Two-Week Cycle
A consistent project-based rhythm reduces cognitive load. You'll focus on learning content, not new instructions, through workbooks and multimedia creation instead of lectures and exams.
The Cognitive Scaffolding Cycle
Each module's four assignments are designed to intentionally move you up the levels of cognitive complexity.
1. Remember & Understand
Foundation & Inquiry
2. Apply & Analyze
Synthesis & Plan
3. Create
Creation & Synthesis
4. Evaluate
Evaluation & Reflection
The Cognitive Scaffolding Cycle
Each two-week module is designed to intentionally move you from foundational knowledge to higher-order thinking.
Part 1
Foundation & Inquiry
The journey begins with foundational knowledge. Your task is to consume, comprehend, and connect information.
Cognitive Level: Remember & Understand
You will demonstrate comprehension by defining key concepts and summarizing arguments from the core materials.
Due: Week 1, Thursday
Part 2
Synthesis & Production Plan
Here, you move from consuming to structuring. You will deconstruct multiple sources to build a blueprint for your own argument.
Cognitive Level: Apply & Analyze
You will organize information, compare ideas from different sources, and structure a coherent outline for your video.
Due: Week 1, Sunday
Part 3
Creation & Synthesis
This is the peak of the module's creative process. You will now synthesize your analysis into a new, original artifact.
Cognitive Level: Create
You will produce an original video, generating a unique synthesis of the module's concepts and your own research.
Due: Week 2, Thursday
Part 4
Evaluation & Reflection
The cycle concludes with metacognition. You will step back to make judgments about your own work and the work of others.
Cognitive Level: Evaluate
You will critique a peer's work and justify your own performance against a rubric, making evidence-based judgments.
Due: Week 2, Sunday
The Sociological Journey
A 16-week narrative from social emergence to institutional power.
M1: The Spark
How does society begin?
WEEKS 1-2M2: The Social Human
How do we become part of it?
WEEKS 3-4M3: The Rules
What invisible structures guide us?
WEEKS 5-6M4: The Systems
What determines our life chances?
WEEKS 7-8M5: The Hierarchies
How is inequality structured?
WEEKS 9-10M6: The Consequences
How do we control those who don't fit?
WEEKS 11-12M7: The Power
What institutions maintain order?
WEEKS 13-14M8: The Capstone
Putting it all together.
WEEKS 15-16The Two-Week Module Cycle
A detailed look at our standard project workflow and expectations.
Due: Week 1, Thursday
Part 1: Foundation & Inquiry
Cognitive Level: Remember & Understand
The goal is to consume, comprehend, and connect with the core module materials.
Core Task:
Engage with the Immersive Learning Article and use the workbook to define key concepts, summarize arguments, and make an initial connection to your personal/professional interests.
Key Deliverables:
- Completed Part 1 of the Module Workbook
- 1-2 minute Audio Overview file
Due: Week 1, Sunday
Part 2: Synthesis & Production Plan
Cognitive Level: Apply & Analyze
Move from consuming to structuring. Deconstruct multiple sources to build a blueprint for your own argument.
Core Task:
Use the Synthesis Matrix in your workbook to compare ideas from different sources. Use this analysis to structure a coherent and detailed script or outline for your main video project.
Key Deliverables:
- Completed Part 2 of the Module Workbook
- Post of your Video Production Plan to the discussion board for peer feedback
Due: Week 2, Thursday
Part 3: Creation & Synthesis
Cognitive Level: Create
Synthesize your analysis into a new, original artifact that demonstrates your unique understanding.
Core Task:
Produce a 3-5 minute video based on your production plan. This video should also feature and explain the Concept Map you create, which visually connects concepts from the current and previous modules.
Key Deliverables:
- Final 3-5 minute video, posted to the discussion board
Due: Week 2, Sunday
Part 4: Evaluation & Reflection
Cognitive Level: Evaluate
Conclude the cycle with metacognition, making evidence-based judgments about your work and the work of others.
Core Task:
Provide structured, constructive feedback to a classmate on the discussion board. Complete a detailed self-assessment in your workbook, reflecting on your process and product.
Key Deliverables:
- Peer Assessment posted as a reply to a classmate's video
- Entire, fully completed Module Workbook