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Welcome to the module Social Issues: Practice and Theory (SOCY 306). The term ‘social issue’ is widely used and sometimes used interchangeably with the ‘social problem’ concept. Despite sufficient research on these two sociological concepts, there is little consensus on what condition or behaviour can be considered a social issue. In recent years, much emphasis has been placed on social issues as a sociological concept largely because socially problematic conditions and behaviours are shrouded in value judgments, cultural relativity, and political contention, which problematizes individuals and communities. Given the wide range of social issues challenging society, the sociological study of social issues raises passionate and compassionate feelings. Still, beyond such feelings, it raises serious questions on how to minimise its prevalence and indirectly help those who become victims.  It must be noted that social issues are not only culture-specific but also vary from time to time. Since societies are differently affected by social issues, their perceptions and definitions will vary. In this context, some foundation knowledge on the study of social issues is necessary, especially about how it becomes defined as one, how it is constructed conceptually from different sociological perspectives, and how one goes about studying it and finding a solution.

The first part of the module will consider diverse theoretical perspectives and social science research methods used to study and understand social issues. Almost universal amongst sociologists is the assumption that certain social issues directly result from poverty. The poor, by their social status, are more vulnerable to certain social problems compared to certain other classes. Often, the poor can least afford the best levels of education or secure basic job skills, resulting in being trapped perpetually in a cycle of poverty that is extremely hard to break. The frustration and hopelessness of a life in poverty exact a heavy human toll.  The second part of the module thus seeks to analyse social issues such as racial inequality, unequal access to education, poverty, gender-based violence and unemployment. A wide range of examples drawn from international and national experiences are highlighted.  

The module aims to support and not supplant student-supervisor mediations in the development and, conceptualizations of a coherent and cogent research proposal for the degree requirement of a dissertation/ thesis. The overall aim of the module is directed toward incrementally building and augmenting key research skills and competencies specific to Sociology, Policy development studies, and Information Studies, but also generic to the Social Sciences and Humanities. The intention is to equip a student to make their own methodological decisions in the light of the epistemological and pragmatic issues surrounding any given study. The content is structured to enable students to identify a suitable research problem/ question, develop a research proposal that presents a rationale for their choice of study design, methods and methodologies. The course will address issues such as, the fundamental elements and principles of social research, including research design, methods, and methodologies. The seminars aim to provide students with an enabling, inclusive, and active learning environment.