In many instances students start in one option and change to the other. Sociology courses incorporate a writing component and students are obliged to participate in classroom discussions and presentations. Examination of grades assigned in upper division Sociology courses between 1986-1996 indicates the option has maintained consistent grading standards while raising performance expectations in both written and verbal participation. Typically students read articles from journals that are on reserve for each day's lecture, and read from thirty to fitfty articles during the semester. The article is discussed in class, and the students are expected to participate critically and synthesize the article verbally.
Assessment takes place by the instructor in both verbal and written form.
Because we found that most students are not knowledgeable in the scientific method at the end of their sophomore year, and were not intellectually mature enough to handle the subject matter, we recently moved our 200-level theory course to the 300 level. We are also introducing a new theory and methods course at the 200 level. The Sociology option attempts to encourage and assess problem-solving skills in most classes. SOC 301 introduces students to major theories in Sociology, both historical and contemporary. The course examines problems of theory development and explores conflicting explanatory frameworks.