Sociology 474 - Fall 2004
Begin this assignment now. Students will design and carry out a semester-long research project on a social movement of their choosing. Local, regional, national or transnational movements may be chosen. Movements, counter-movements, social movement organizations, and social movement participants are acceptable focuses of research.
Research methods may include interviews, participant observation, and/or use of available data. If you interview someone, obtain their permission to use their name in your written paper, or use a pseudonym. If you are studying a social movement through participant observation, talk to me about appropriate ways of identifying group(s) and individuals.
At your earliest convenience, begin locating, obtaining and reading scholarly works addressing your topic and/or relevant theoretical approaches. Your final paper must contain substantive references to at least 10 journal articles or books related your topic, plus additional topical material as appropriate.
Your first, two-part deliverable, due in Week 2 includes (a) a 1 p. research proposal, and (b) a preliminary bibliography of 10 scholarly journal articles and/or books related to your topic. The proposal should specify your topic & proposed research methods.
In Week 7, you will informally discuss in class & submit in writing a working paper summarizing your findings and reflections to-date. The working paper should be well-organized and well-written, 3-5 pp., typed, double-spaced, and include a revised bibliography.
Continue your research in the latter half of the semester. Consider how the social movement you are studying relates to the theoretical issues discussed in class and in course readings. Read and address journal articles addressing similar aspects of social movement theory, and analyzing historical or comparative aspects of the social movement you are researching.
In Week 15, each student will share her/ his research findings with the rest of the class in the form of an oral presentation. You are welcome and encouraged to augment your presentation with use of supporting materials such as a poster display, handout, etc. (20% of the project grade.)
Your final paper should frame your empirical findings with a thoughtful discussion of one or more of the theoretical issues discussed in the class and class readings. It should be typed, double-spaced, c. 10-12 pp., plus references, in length, and include proper citations (see Lester 2005 or equivalent guide). It is due no later than the beginning of the scheduled final examination for this class. (80% of the project grade.)
As an alternative to a written paper, students are invited to produce an original work of fine art or a multi-media product related to the course topic. Such products must be identified in the Research Proposal due in Week 2, and include also a narrative description and explanation of the product and a formal bibliography of works consulted.
"A" papers ... meet or exceed all of the requirements for a "B" paper, plus must be exceptionally well thought out, researched, and written. The topic must be interesting, the argument convincing and the documentation thorough. Theoretical concepts addressed in the course are integrated into the paper's analysis.
"B" papers ... must be well organized, researched, and written, and include substantive reference to at least 10 scholarly works related to your topic. They must include proper use of citations and a complete list of references, and be a minimum of 10 pp. (not including cover page and references), typed, double-spaced, 12 pt. New Times Roman regular type, 1" margin, no extra spacing between paragraphs.
"C" papers ... fall short of requirements for a "B" paper, but still are serious efforts to fulfill the assignment.
"D" papers ... indicate marginal interest in or effort on the topic.
"F" papers ... do not meet minimum course requirements. Multiple submissions (papers submitted to other classes), unoriginal work and plagiarism all will result in an automatic "F".
Week 2 – Research proposal and preliminary bibliography due
Week 7 – Working paper and revised bibliography due; informal presentation of preliminary findings
Week 15 – Oral presentation
Week 16 – Final paper due no later than the beginning of scheduled final examination for this class
last updated December 17, 2004