course-details-portlet

SOS1001 - Social Theory

About

Examination arrangement

Examination arrangement: School exam
Grade: Letter grades

Evaluation Weighting Duration Grade deviation Examination aids
School exam 100/100 5 hours E

Course content

Sociological theories are tools that help us understand the society we live in. The course provides an introduction to sociological theories and sociological knowledge about society's structure and functioning. Through the course, students will become familiar with a number of influential theories about the structure and functioning of society. Particular emphasis is placed on how and why society changes, and to see these processes in the light of classic and recent sociological theories. Among the central themes covered in the course are societal structure, social institutions, social action, and globalization and its consequences. The relevance of the theories will be discussed in the light of current social phenomena.

The students will be introduced to sociological theories and sociological knowledge about society structure and functioning. In particular, the course will give the students an introduction to how classical and modern theories can be used to understand how and why society changes. Central themes of the course are social structure, social institutions and consequences of globalization.

Learning outcome

Knowledge - the student shall:

  • have knowledge of the most important classical and modern sociological theories and perspectives.
  • know the history of sociology; origins and development.
  • know different principles for categorizing sociological perspectives and theories.

Skills - the student shall demonstrate the ability to:

  • be able to summarize central theoretical contributions, both written and oral.
  • be able to apply different sociological perspectives in analyzes of the contemporary social structure and social changes.
  • be able to place sociological work in a historical context and a perspective context.
  • demonstrate the ability to reflect critically on theories of social structure and social change.

Learning methods and activities

4 hours of lectures every week throughout the semester according to the lecture plan. Seminars two hours per week. The organization of the seminars will be presented at the beginning of the semester. The compulsory activity can only be completed in the spring semester. Specific requirements will be announced at the start of the semester.

Compulsory assignments

  • Approved term papers.

Further on evaluation

Form of assessment: A five hour written exam.

Required previous knowledge

None.

Course materials

To be given at the start of the semester.

Credit reductions

Course code Reduction From To
SVSOS106 15.0
SOS1001 15.0 SPRING 2004
More on the course

No

Facts

Version: 2
Credits:  15.0 SP
Study level: Foundation courses, level I

Coursework

Term no.: 1
Teaching semester:  SPRING 2025

Language of instruction: Norwegian

Location: Trondheim

Subject area(s)
  • Social Sciences
  • Sociology
Contact information
Course coordinator:

Department with academic responsibility
Department of Sociology and Political Science

Examination

Examination arrangement: School exam

Term Status code Evaluation Weighting Examination aids Date Time Examination system Room *
Autumn ORD School exam 100/100 E INSPERA
Room Building Number of candidates
Spring ORD School exam 100/100 E INSPERA
Room Building Number of candidates
  • * The location (room) for a written examination is published 3 days before examination date. If more than one room is listed, you will find your room at Studentweb.
Examination

For more information regarding registration for examination and examination procedures, see "Innsida - Exams"

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